Don't Struggle In Silence 5k
Sat, Apr 11, 2026, 8:30 AM EDT
- Location
- Norfolk, VA
- 1129 Boissevain Ave, 23507
- Type
- RUN
Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.
At a glance
Run for mental health awareness along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail, then connect with community at a post-race gathering.
- Scenic
- For a Cause
Scenic
For a CauseGreat for: cause-driven runners
Less ideal for: pure PR-chasing on a bare course
The Don't Struggle In Silence 5K is a meaningful event dedicated to mental health advocacy, founded by Emily Sheetz in memory of her sister, Courtney, to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Taking place in Norfolk, VA, the 5K route runs along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail. Participants receive a finisher medal and are invited to an after-party at Benchtop Brewing Company to connect and enjoy local food and drink. It's an opportunity to come together, show support, and foster hope and healing.
What to expect
- A purposeful 5K run along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail.
- Receive a finisher medal to commemorate your participation.
- Enjoy a post-race gathering at Benchtop Brewing Company with drinks and local food vendors.
Standout details
- Supports mental health advocacy
- Scenic Elizabeth River Trail course
- Finisher medal for all participants
- After-party at Benchtop Brewing Company
Perks & features
- After-Party
- Medal
After-Party
MedalFrom the public listing — confirm on the official site.
Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.
Distances & registration
2 optionsRegistration for all distances is through the official signup link above.
- 3.1 Miles
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $54.98
Opens Jan 17, 2026, 2:59 AM EST · Closes Apr 11, 2026, 4:30 AM EDT
- 5K
Sat, Apr 11, 8:30 AM EDT · From $54.98
Opens Oct 31, 2025, 8:00 PM EDT · Closes Apr 11, 2026, 4:30 AM EDT
The course
- Flat
- Timed race
Vibe Check
Easygoing
Easygoing5K distance, flat area, typically mild weather
Based on typical seasonal and area patterns — not a course map or official forecast.
From the organizer
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; it’s 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 Don’t 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
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