Last week, something really sad happened in Prospect Park in Brooklyn. A man who was identified as “John Doe” for 10 days was found unconscious by emergency responders who then transported him to the hospital, where he remained on life support. What is so tragic is that no one knew who this man was, his medical history, his emergency contacts, or anything because he did not have any form of ID.
He was later identified as 68-year-old Rynn Berry, by his half-brother after his picture had been circulated throughout social media in an attempt to identify him. Berry was removed from life support last Thursday, and unfortunately passed away. If we can learn one thing from this tragic story, it is that you NEED to run with some form of ID. There is no exception.
Had this poor man had some type of ID, his family may have been notified much sooner and his medical information could have been made available to the medical providers who cared for him. Running with identification is one of those things that runners seem to get complacent about after awhile. So I am begging you to please remember to run with ID once again.
There are so many tools out there that can help make running with ID easier. I have a Road ID, which I love because it’s comfortable and has all the necessary information on it. If you carry a Nathan Performance hand held, it has a built in pocket with an informational tag for you to fill out. There are also items like the SPIbelt, that allow you to easily and comfortably carry your identification. Additionally, if possible, let someone you know where you are going to be running and approximately how long you will be gone.
How sad! You are so right about carrying ID – I never run without my Road ID.
I know, it really is such a tragic story 🙁
Such a tragic story, it was all over our news here all week. I never run without ID – I slip my license and debit card into the back pocket of my running pants/skirt, or if I’m wearing a running belt, then they go into a pocket there. Along with $20 just in case. I often run while everyone is out and about at work so I like to be prepared in case I have an emergency.
Great advice about the spare cash too–you never know when you might need it! Glad to hear you are running safe! 🙂
So sad!! Road ID also has an iPhone app that will text a number your route, and text them if you stop moving for more than 5 or 10 minutes, it also changes your home screen on your phone to your emergency info.
I am going to check out that app Terry–thanks for sharing! 🙂
Thank you thank you thank you. This was just the kick in the face I need to get an ID to wear when I don’t run with my phone!
You’re welcome Kyle, now go get that ID! 🙂
I also use a Road ID for over a year now. I actually wear it always and get comments from a lot of people. I like having it as quick access for any emergency.
It’s amazing how many people have never seen someone wearing one! Good for you for setting a good example! 🙂