Run, walk, roll for a cause

The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey (BIANJ) will host the 24th annual 5K Run/Walk/Roll at Laurel Acres Park on Saturday, Oct. 3, to support survivors, caregivers and families across the state.

“It is a wonderful day,” said BIANJ Director of Communications Sara Britton. “It’s so meaningful for us to see people we’ve connected with throughout the year, hear their stories and share this experience together in person.”

Registration is required and will open at 8:30 a.m. The walk will begin at 9:30. Children under five are free but should still be registered. Day-of registration will be available at www.bianj.org/5kwalk. After completing your registration, participants can show their receipt to the check-in table to receive their T-shirt and/or bib (bibs are for 5K participants at the race’s Bradley Beach location only). People can also participate virtually by posting photos either running or walking and are encouraged to tag the organization online. The event will be held rain or shine and is also dog friendly. The 2025 5K Run/Walk/Roll brought together more than 1,000 families, friends and supporters of people with brain injury. More than $100,000 was raised to fund the services that BIANJ provides.

“Walking together in numbers reminds people that they’re not alone,” Britton said. “Challenges can also create opportunities to make a positive difference. By coming together, families can support one another, stand with other families, and help raise awareness about brain injury and prevention throughout the state, especially in the local communities where our walks take place.”

The BIANJ was founded in 1981 by a small group of concerned parents of children who had sustained brain injury. Since then, the organization has grown to become the primary source of information, education, advocacy, support and hope for people with brain injury and their families in New Jersey. Today, the dedicated staff, board, volunteers, donors and community partners provide service to 10,000 New Jersey residents each year.

According to the BIANJ, there are two types of brain injury: traumatic brain injury (TBI) and acquired brain injury (ABI). A TBI is caused by an external factor such as a bump, blow or jolt to the head, that disrupts the normal function of the brain. An ABI is an injury to the brain that is not hereditary, congenital, degenerative or induced by birth trauma. This type of injury is one that has occurred after birth.

A few preventive measures to safeguard children from fall-related injuries include maintaining constant supervision of children around fall hazards or when they are on elevated areas; installing protective rails on beds and guards on windows and ensuring that play areas are well-maintained and regularly inspected, ensuring playground equipment is free from hazards. For additional resources or more information, the BIANJ is always available at (732) 745-0200.