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January 23, 2008

Photo Caption: Pictured is Eugene Roberts, running in 120 degree heat this past summer just outside of Parker Arizona during the early stages of his cross-country journey

Maryland Veteran Motivated to Run Cross Country

For many avid runners, marathons are no major challenge. Running across the state of Maryland is a little more daunting, but running across the country is usually more of a nightmare than a dream. 

Vietnam veteran and VA Maryland Health Care System patient Eugene Roberts, is not your usual runner. Each year he runs in the Marine Corps Marathon, and he even ran across the state of Maryland before.  Now he’s taken his running to the next level.  In July of 2007, he started from Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base in California, on a cross country run that will finish at the Baltimore VA Medical center this spring.  It’s a laudable endeavor for any seasoned runner, but even more remarkable is the fact that Roberts has two prosthetic legs!

The former high-school track star said he is motivated by Jesus, and he refuses to let his war injuries stop him from achieving his dreams. Roberts is currently running through Alabama. A welcoming celebration is being planned for when Roberts completes his journey at the Baltimore VA Medical Center this spring.

The staff in Prosthetics Service at the VA Maryland Health Care System have been working with Roberts to coordinate health care “pit stops” along his journey across the country. Due to the unprecedented use of his prosthetics, VA medical staff must make regular adjustments to his legs and sockets, and the soles of his feet have to be replaced after constant pounding on the pavement.  As with any distance runner, Roberts also gets his share of blisters and minor injuries. VA Medical Centers across the country have been quick to accommodate the VA Maryland Health Care System patient during his cross country journey.  This is a great example of how the VA and the VA Maryland health Care System is going the “extra mile” to provide world-class health care services to our nation’s veterans.