
Don't Struggle In Silence 5k is a running race on April 10, 2027 in Norfolk, VA, with an entry fee of $35.
Race Details
Location: Benchtop Brewing Company (1129 Boissevain Ave. Norfolk, VA 23507)
Date: Saturday, April 10, 2027
Time: 8:30am - 12:00pm
Description
This movement was founded by Emily Sheetz, a fourth-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 4th Annual Don’t Struggle In Silence 5K will take place on April 10th, 2027 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, 2027, 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
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
68°
Typical Low
47°
Chance of Rain
35%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Norfolk S, 4 mi from the venue.
Population
235,037
as of 2023
City Elevation
5 ft
Nearest Airport
ORF
Norfolk International Airport · 3 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Don't Struggle In Silence 5k, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
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Don't Struggle In Silence 5k
Apr 10, 2027