Once again, Mary Bazan and Tom Gerhardstein have taken the lead in the Run for the Mind slated this year to begin at 9AM Sat., Oct. 5.
The sister-brother team has been chairing the 5K race for more than a decade and every year their passion to help NAMI DuPage gets greater.
“Our parents, Mike and Olga Gerhardstein, became involved with NAMI DuPage when it began 28 years ago because we had a family member impacted by mental illness,” said Bazan. “Our family has continued to be supportive of NAMI because of the kindness, hope and programs they provide not only to those who are struggling, but to those closest to the individual.”
“The race also provides critical funding for all the support, education and advocacy programs that annually touch the lives across the lives of almost 20,000 people across Dupage County,” added Tom Gerhardstein.
For instance, NAMI has rolled out a mental health program now featured in more than half of the high schools in DuPage County as well as 29 middle schools. “Ending the Silence” is an interactive program put on by peers, to help students identify the signs and symptoms of mental illness. This program provides education, resources and helps break through the stigma associated with mental illness. It creates empathy and promotes seeking help, which allows for earlier diagnoses and better chances for recovery.
Bazan explained that the Run for the Mind has been a family affair for the last 12 years.
“Tom and I have been Co-Race Directors, with our brothers and sisters—eight of us—plus, spouses and children are involved in making the race a success. Our family always attended the walks and twelve years ago, because we have several runners in our family, we decided to add the race portion to the event,” she said.
“My involvement with the race allows me to open the door with people to talk about mental illness in an open and honest way. Many people have either been challenged with it themselves or have a family member facing challenges and most people don’t know where to go.”
Bazan said her openness has allowed her to direct individuals to NAMI DuPage where they can find some support and hope.
The walk/run takes place on the spacious track in the beautiful natural setting at Danada, located in the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. The entrance is at 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton. Registration takes place 7:30-8:45AM on Oct. 5.
For more information about NAMI DuPage, its many programs or to register in advance for Run for the Mind, visit www.namidupage.org.
