Don't Struggle In Silence 5k
- Date Sat 11th April 2026
- Time 8:30AM EDT
- Location Norfolk, Virginia
- Price $44.30
- Races 1 race
- Distances 5km
Event summary
Join us for the 3rd Annual Don't Struggle In Silence 5K on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Norfolk, Virginia! This uplifting event will take place at the Benchtop Brewing Company, starting bright and early at 8:30 AM. Participants will enjoy a scenic run along the beautiful Elizabeth River Trail, making it an invigorating experience for runners of all levels.
This event is more than just a race; it’s a powerful movement dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and breaking the stigma surrounding it. Founded by Emily Sheetz, a passionate advocate whose personal journey fuels this cause, the event aims to foster community support and promote open conversations about mental health challenges. Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who register by March 20, 2026, will be guaranteed a stylish event T-shirt. After the race, join us for an exciting after-party at Benchtop Brewing Company, where you can relax, enjoy delicious food from local vendors, and connect with fellow participants. Let’s come together to ensure that no one struggles in silence—your presence can make a difference!
This event is more than just a race; it’s a powerful movement dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and breaking the stigma surrounding it. Founded by Emily Sheetz, a passionate advocate whose personal journey fuels this cause, the event aims to foster community support and promote open conversations about mental health challenges. Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who register by March 20, 2026, will be guaranteed a stylish event T-shirt. After the race, join us for an exciting after-party at Benchtop Brewing Company, where you can relax, enjoy delicious food from local vendors, and connect with fellow participants. Let’s come together to ensure that no one struggles in silence—your presence can make a difference!
Organiser's Description
RACE DETAILS
Location: Benchtop Brewing Company (1129 Boissevain Ave. Norfolk, VA 23507)
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 8:30am - 12:00pm
DESCRIPTION
This movement was founded by Emily Sheetz, a third-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), whose passion for mental health advocacy stems from a deeply personal place. In 2012, Emily lost her sister, Courtney, to suicide.
Courtney struggled with self-harm and eating disorders for many years, and despite her family's best efforts to support her, they couldn't find a way to help. For a long time after her death, Emily and her family struggled to talk about what happened, as the stigma surrounding mental health prevented her from sharing the impact it had on her family. Now Emily shares her story without the fear of being judged or looked down upon. Losing her sister to suicide is a part of her one she no longer carries with shame or guilt. Emily is now using her voice to show others it is okay to speak out and ask for help. No one should or deserves to struggle in silence.
This event is more than just a fundraiser; its an opportunity to bring our community together and show that we are not alone in our struggles. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and by participating, we can help break the silence and show others that hope and healing are possible.
The 3rd Annual Dont Struggle In Silence 5K will take place on April 11th, 2026 starting at Benchtop Brewing Company and running along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail.
Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who register by March 20, 2026, are guaranteed a T-shirt.
After the race, we invite you to join us at Benchtop Brewing Company for an after-party, where you can enjoy a drink, connect with others, and grab some food from local vendors.
Let's come together for a meaningful cause and support our community. Together, we can ensure no one has to struggle in silence.
RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below or contact us on Instagram at @dontstruggleinsilence5k
Location: Benchtop Brewing Company (1129 Boissevain Ave. Norfolk, VA 23507)
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 8:30am - 12:00pm
DESCRIPTION
This movement was founded by Emily Sheetz, a third-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), whose passion for mental health advocacy stems from a deeply personal place. In 2012, Emily lost her sister, Courtney, to suicide.
Courtney struggled with self-harm and eating disorders for many years, and despite her family's best efforts to support her, they couldn't find a way to help. For a long time after her death, Emily and her family struggled to talk about what happened, as the stigma surrounding mental health prevented her from sharing the impact it had on her family. Now Emily shares her story without the fear of being judged or looked down upon. Losing her sister to suicide is a part of her one she no longer carries with shame or guilt. Emily is now using her voice to show others it is okay to speak out and ask for help. No one should or deserves to struggle in silence.
This event is more than just a fundraiser; its an opportunity to bring our community together and show that we are not alone in our struggles. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and by participating, we can help break the silence and show others that hope and healing are possible.
The 3rd Annual Dont Struggle In Silence 5K will take place on April 11th, 2026 starting at Benchtop Brewing Company and running along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail.
Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who register by March 20, 2026, are guaranteed a T-shirt.
After the race, we invite you to join us at Benchtop Brewing Company for an after-party, where you can enjoy a drink, connect with others, and grab some food from local vendors.
Let's come together for a meaningful cause and support our community. Together, we can ensure no one has to struggle in silence.
RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below or contact us on Instagram at @dontstruggleinsilence5k
Races
-
5k
Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 11th April 2026 (8:30AM EDT)
$44.30
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1129 Boissevain Ave, Norfolk, 23507, VA, United States
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Don't Struggle In Silence 5k
