Twins getting medical experience early

The twins contacted the group and initially were told they needed to be licensed health care professionals but could obtain a sponsor to volunteer.

They quickly informed RAM they are licensed certified nursing assistants in North Carolina.

While at Morehead High School, Michael and Victor took Health Occupations under Martha Corum, who "trained them well," their father said. The pair also worked third shift at the Morehead Hospital emergency room in the summer of 2008.

"RAM was delighted and told them to hop aboard," Randy Cresenzo said. "From there it was all go."

The twins have been to expeditions in West Knoxville, Pigeon Forge and Spencer, Tenn.

They usually arrive on Friday night to help set up and hand out tickets. Then their day starts about 5 the next morning with the first patients coming in about 6.

At their first expedition in January in Knoxville, the two spent the night in the parking lot, Victor said.

"It was in the teens that night and there were 40 or 50 people waiting out all night  just sitting in the cold," he said. "It was very upsetting seeing all these people not getting the help they need, but this is what they have to do."

Often the volunteers see an average of 1,000 patients who cannot afford medical insurance but are in need of medical attention.

"Everybody I have met has been very humble and very gracious," Victor said. "One Hispanic lady had seven really young kids and no money at all. The dentists had to pull a bunch of teeth."

The twins have assisted doctors and dentists. Both plan to go into the medical field.

Victor said he has wanted to be a doctor all his life. They started off volunteering at Morehead Hospital as sophomores.

"I just love the medical field," said Victor, who is considering being an orthopedic surgeon. "I love everything about it. The human body is amazing."

Michael is thinking about orthopedics or cardiology. They will follow in the steps of their grandfather, Victor, and uncle Mark.

The enthusiasm of their sons soon led Randy and Julie, as well as Julie's sister, Jennifer Tulloch, to get involved. They have volunteered at several expeditions.

Randy Cresenzo is proud of his sons because of their work.

"Best of all, they're in an environment of caring professionals who are giving to those in desperate need and in real pain because of a neglect in medical care," he said.