On The Run For Kids with Cancer

Runners will take to the streets of Franklin Lakes for a good cause next Saturday: the Fifth Annual Bryan's Run. The 5K, which follows the same course as the Reindeer Run, is run in memory of Bryan Opremcak, a 12-year-old who died from an aggressive brain cancer in January 2006.

"Bryan was an inspiration to everyone who met him," his family wrote on the Bryan's Dream Foundation website. "He truly appreciated the never-ending support of his family and friends, classmates, school, community and church and always wanted to do something to give to others. We are striving to honor Bryan and his all-too-short life by carrying it forward and fulfilling his dream through the Bryan’s Dream Foundation."

The 501c3 nonprofit strives to make a difference in the lives of children with brain cancer. The annual run was started by Bryan's uncle, Steve Opremcak, a track coach at Ridgewood High School, who wanted to do something for the foundation after Bryan died.

The foundation chose Franklin Lakes for the race because it is a USATF certified course, which assures the course length is exact and the time is accurate. 

The race, which begins at Academy of the Most Blessed Sacrament, includes a 1K fun run starting at 9 a.m. and 5K starting at 9:30 a.m. Participants can pre-register online or register in person the day of the event.

For more information, visit www.bryansdream.org.