03/05/2026
Taking care of people is what we do every day and Birkie weekend is no exception. It takes a lot of people to keep the finish line medical tent running all weekend. This year, Tamarack Health cared for 71 patients over three days. A fast course meant about twice the usual number of visits.
Do you recognize any of these smiling faces? MANY team members volunteered their time and expertise, but here's a few of the faces you may spot:
Dr. Jesse Coenen – Emergency Medicine physician in Hayward, serves as the Medical Director for all American Birkebeiner events. He works closely with race organizers to make sure each event has the right medical plans, supplies, and people in place.
Dr. Sarah Fowler – ENT specialist at Tamarack Health Hayward, has become a familiar face at community events since her move to Hayward three years ago. She enjoys the rural atmosphere and close-knit community here.
Dr. Brian Donahue – Hayward’s sports medicine orthopedic surgeon, has been a dedicated Birkie volunteer since arriving six years ago. His expertise supports both our community and 10,000+ skiers who take on the races each year.
And an extra special thank you to Karyn Tiffany, our master medical station coordinator and nurse in Hayward’s infusion and oncology department. Karyn volunteered all three days at the finish line and helped coordinate extra coverage for the race while the hospital was busy that week, too!
Thank you to everyone who stepped up to help care for the Birkie community!
