Annual event will support veterans and military families in crisis

(TUCSON) – The Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona is proud to announce their 2023 Salute Our Vets Run for Brain Health 10K & 5K Race/1-Mile Fun Run is returning to beautiful Brandy Fenton Memorial Park in Southern Arizona this fall.

The family friendly and running competitive event will take place on Sunday, October 14, 2023, in Tucson. On-site check-in and brunch begin at 7:00am; the race kicks off at 8:00am. Participants can run, walk, use a wheelchair, or even run virtually.

Proceeds from the event go directly to continue the Brain Injury Alliance’s emergency fund that supports Arizona caregivers, veterans, and active duty military members. The event also honors veterans who go above and beyond to make Arizona an outstanding place for military families.

Anne Adkinson, Military Caregiver Advocate for the Brain Injury Alliance, saw first-hand last year how the proceeds from the event ensures statewide support veterans and military families coping with brain health concerns like stroke, concussion, TBI, and PTSD. Adkinson said the fund filled in the gaps to make sure other programs worked for veterans, ensuring community resources went further. “I think one of my favorite stories from how the funds were used from last year’s event is helping Tony, a veteran from Flagstaff,” said Adkinson. “He was driving his daughter to a court ordered visit with her maternal grandparents and blew a tire on the highway. This fund helped him get back on the road safely and abide by the court order, allowing him to keep his job and stay housed.”

The fund also gives the community a chance to honor Arizona veterans, outstanding businesses, and caregivers. Sean Stoddard is a medically retired Mesa Police Officer and an Army Veteran. He was honored at the event last year as a distinguished veteran.

“We have over 600,000 veterans here in Arizona,” Stoddard said. “The time to support them is now !”

Individuals running clubs, and teams can get ready to sign up or sponsor Salute Our Vets, as well as nominate local heroes. The planning committee hopes that race participants will feel proud knowing they are supporting veterans who’ve sacrificed much for fellow Americans. This support is especially appreciated by veterans who are in the fight to stay brain healthy.

For those who register by October 7, 2023, the 10K is $40, 5K is $30, 1-Mile Fun Run is $20, and virtual race is $30. All participants will receive a gold Medal of Brain Health Honor and custom ON-Fit Tech T-shirt.