Photo by Chris Rodgers
For more than 20 years, the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride (NEMSMBR) has honored emergency medical services personnel through long-distance cycling events to memorialize and celebrate those who serve every day, those who have become sick or injured while performing their duties, and those who have perished in the line of duty.
“The purpose of the ride is to celebrate the lives of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and those still working in emergency medical services,” said Steve Barry, Colorado route coordinator for the NEMSMBR. “We each have our own reasons for participating, whether losing a friend, partner or colleague, honoring the EMS providers who choose to serve their communities each day, or simply raising awareness of safety in EMS.”
This year, Banner Health is sponsoring the local portion of the nationwide ride in appreciation of the work done by health care workers and first responders across Northern Colorado with a special focus on supporting those facing mental health issues as a result of the global pandemic, among other recent events, ranging from Colorado’s unpredictable wildfires to highly sensitive situations stemming from today’s social climate.
Taking place Sept. 20-24, 2021, area riders will start their route in Aspen, Colo. and will reach the finish line in Morrison, Colo. During the route, Banner’s emergency medical air transport program will join riders at Loveland Ski Basin for lunch so that the participants can meet and thank them for supporting their mission. Banner is also sponsoring a dinner for riders on Sept. 21 at their stop in Vail, Colo.
