The disaster medicine club was formed in response to growing realization of the
importance of including animals in disaster plans.  With several recent
large-scale natural disasters involving large numbers of domestic animals, as well as
the threat of significant animal-related disease outbreaks, the
critical role of veterinarians in disaster relief has become immediately
apparent.  We aim to introduce students and faculty to the role they might play
in disaster response as well as educate the community in ways to prepare for and
take care of their families and pets in the event of a disaster.

Co-President Emily Christiansen: DVM/MPH Candidate 2008

Emily's interest in emergency response began as a volunteer EMT in college, though she has since realized that she prefers it when her victims can't talk, but rather try to bite her.  The opportunity to miss some vet school classes and respond to Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina was not one to be missed, and made it clear how critical it is to be prepared on the local level to protect animals and their families in disaster situations.  She now enjoys composing elaborately over-organized plans and grants, as well as pretending to be a grown-up veterinarian during emergency drills.  She hasn't killed a stuffed animal yet!!

The Worcester Telegram, February 19, 2006

Co-President Nadia Stegeman: DVM/MPH Candidate 2008:

Nadia's rescuing efforts began working as a lifeguard and divemaster.  The following conversation seemed to play on repeat during my watch: "Can you swim", "yes" <jumps in and flails; after getting towed to the side> "Can you swim?" , "yes".  "What's your name?", "yes" - "Do you speak English?", "yes" -  "What did the Joker say to Batman when he introduced his parents to the barrel of a handgun?", "yes". "WRONG, BUDDY!"  How rude! Lying to me about Batman lines equals immediate ejection from my pool/open ocean! It was times like these when she realized, she'd rather work with animals. But the rescuing part was okay. 

Other Pictures from Drills, Meets, and Responses

Nadia Stegeman and Lea Sheldahl (V'08) between vet exams at the CMDART drill

Tammy Han (DVM/MPH '09), Mischa Robyn (DVM/MPH '09), and Nadia Stegeman discussing the prognosis of our vet "station" making it through the drill still standing

Emily Christiansen contemplating referral of a neurological monkey during a local Central Massachusetts Disaster Animal Response Team drill

Emily Christiansen explaining pet preparedness at the Disaster table, Tufts Open House 2006

Eric Mondschein (DVM/MPH '07) and Nadia Stegeman discussing disaster funding at Tufts Open House 2006

Emily Christiansen and Nadia Stegeman with patients in Slidell, LA after Hurricane Katrina 2005