Join us for the 18th annual KAT-Walk & Karo-5K for Brain Aneurysm Awareness on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at Payson Park in Portland, Maine.
REMEMBER AND CELEBRATE
This event provides the opportunity to remember and honor our loved ones lost to an aneurysm and to celebrate survival. Last year’s event saw 25 Brain Aneurysm survivors join us for this emotional day and 23 new sneakers were added to our wall of honor.
Last year, 25 survivors of brain aneurysms and strokes joined us. This annual group photo is always a special moment, capturing their remarkable resilience and strength. If you are a survivor, we invite you to come forward.
The honor wall is where families can place a sneaker with the name and photo of a loved one who has been lost to an aneurysm or the name and photo of a survivor. An emotional place for some and a proud place for others.
For some of the over 275 folks that joined us last year, it was a walk in the park, for others, a major accomplishment. But for all, it is a chance to be together with family, friends and others affected by this horrible illness.
SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY
The day starts with family gatherings, activities for the kids, and informational tables. Bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy the cove. This is a great opportunity to meet and support families affected by brain aneurysms, stroke, and other brain injuries.
- 9:30 a.m. Onsite registration begins.
- 10:30 a.m. Opening ceremonies begin and with Welcome remarks and Scholarship Awards presentations.
- 11:00 a.m. The timed Karo-5K run begins. It follows an “out & back” course on the boulevard pathway. Prizes and thank-you medallions will be awarded to top runners in age groups.
- 11:05 a.m. The KAT-Walk will follow a short time after the runners. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the shorter 2.5-mile course along Baxter Boulevard with great views of the cove.
- 12:15 PM: Runners awards and closing ceremonies.
REGISTER, FORM A TEAM, OR DONATE
Register as an individual (family), form a team, join an existing team, or make a donation only. We look forward to welcoming you and your family at this year’s KAT-Walk & Karo-5k on September 20th!
Thank you for your support of our efforts to provide brain aneurysm awareness, education, funding of research, and general support centered on the Brain Aneurysm community here in Maine and northern New England.