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Katie Thorsness, MD, is back to run for residents at the Twin Cities Marathon on October 6th. Every year since 2021, Dr. Thorsness has raised money for the Resident Integrated Support Environment (RISE) Program. She co-directs the program, which specializes in the mental, physical, and financial health of physician residents at HCMC.

The 2023 Twin Cities marathon was canceled because of unseasonably high temperatures (this time, the temperature is forecasted to be much cooler). Despite the disappointment from last year, Dr. Thorsness is persevering to race again.

“The residents inspire me,” Dr. Thorsness shared. “We talk about resiliency and fostering strength, so training for the marathon again is an opportunity for me to practice what I hope is happening for the residents.”

Like many of the mental health available to Hennepin Healthcare’s own team members, RISE relies upon philanthropy.

To support this crucial resource, Dr. Thorsness created a Funraise page, the Foundation’s do-it-yourself fundraising platform that guides users in creating a custom campaign. Last year, she easily surpassed her goal, and the funds were used to host a resident pickleball tournament, race registrations for residents, and other community-based movement opportunities.

“It was a great experience to see compassionate and curious connections among residents from all over the system,” Dr. Thorsness said.

Since the launch of the RISE program, Dr. Thorsness has noticed an improvement in residents’ health and well-being.

“When we invest in residents, we invest in the community,” Dr. Thorsness said. “It’s caring for the caregiver, which is especially important with how residents and all medical professionals have been stretched over the last few years.”

As the marathon approaches, Dr. Thorsness is looking forward to seeing everyone cheering for racers, particularly her colleagues and family.

“This will be my first official Twin Cities Marathon, and from what I hear, the whole community shows up to support runners,” Dr. Thorsness said. “It’s the same for RISE – the community shows up.”

You can show up for residents and invest in a healthier community by donating to Dr. Thorsness’ campaign.