Survivors Day 5K Honors Families Of Those Lost To Suicide In Ocean County

ISLAND HEIGHTS, NJ — Runners and walkers are invited to join members of Ocean County law enforcement on Saturday for the 5th annual Survivors Day 5K to support efforts to increase awareness of mental health needs.

Saturday is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, and the 5K, organized by the Ocean County Sheriff's Office in honor of Christian Schenk, an Ocean County Sheriff's Officer who died in April 2020. Each year it also honors other local law enforcement officers.

The 2024 event will honor Lt. Anthony "Butchie" Kurnel III of the Berkeley Township Police Department, who died Sept. 1, 2016 at age 55. Kurnel was a husband, father of 3, and a proud grandfather to Anthony.

"He was the cornerstone to his family and held such a bright presence in the community," the organizers said. "His legacy will live on as we remember the countless lives he has touched, all the laughs we’ve had and all of the people he’s lent his hand out to help. We remember Butchie, not only for the challenges he faced, but for the joy he brought to everyone, his dedication to his family, and the care that he brought to every aspect of life."

"The anniversary of Anthony's and Christian's deaths are stark reminders of the lasting effects that loss and grief have on surviving families as well as the importance of bringing communities together to support one another," the organizers said. "Please join us for a day of healing and understanding."

The race begins at 9:30 a.m., leaving from 5 Wanamaker Plaza in Island Heights.

Register online for the race.