Chief Joseph P. Razza
Johnston Chief of PoliceAn avid runner — this course retraces the route he ran every day.
Read Chief Razza's story →
2026 Reason to Run
Supporting cancer research with every step
- Who
- All are welcome!
- What
- 2026 Reason to Run — a run and walk of about 4 miles, benefiting glioblastoma research.
- When
- Saturday, November 7, 2026 · 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. (registration 9:00–9:45 a.m.)
- Where
- Johnston Senior High School, Johnston, RI
Mile 1 — The Research
12‑18 mo.
Typical survival time after diagnosis
5‑7%
Five-year survival rate
8 mo.
Extra time research bought Rob Shein
Glioblastoma is rare, ruthless, and underfunded.
The most common primary brain cancer in adults. Standard treatment has barely changed since 2005, and there is still no cure.
Led by Dr. Eric T. Wong
The doctor whose care inspired the founders. Every mile helps fund research beyond what grants alone cover.
Read about his research →
Mile 2 — Who We Run For
Three lives, one reason to run.
We run in honor of the people whose fight for more time made this event possible.
Dr. Alexander P. Robertson
Orthopedic Spine SurgeonA Brown-trained surgeon remembered for his kindness as much as his skill.
Read Dr. Robertson's story →
Robert Stuart Shein
US Army Veteran, Rhode Island College Faculty and Assistant DeanDiagnosed in 2022, Rob was given eight more months by a treatment outside the standard protocol.
Read Rob Shein's story →
Mile 3 — The Founders
It started with four friends who refused to let grief sit still.
In 2023, Mandi, Reid, Michelle, and Melissa lost three people to glioblastoma within months of each other. This is what they built instead.
"Every gift matters. Every mile matters. We run so the next family has more time than we did." The founders of Reason to RunMeet the team →
Aid Station
Fuel the miles ahead.
Every donation gives a cure a chance.
Donate
Sponsorship opportunities Fundraising leaderboard
Giving by check? Make it payable to Rhode Island Hospital Foundation, PO Box H, Providence, RI 02901, with “Reason to Run” in the memo line.
Finish Line — Join us on November 7th
Past Events
See all photos →
Moments from past events
Every one of these happened because someone showed up — runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who gave.
Whatever you're carrying — a name, a diagnosis, a promise you made to somebody — bring it. That's a reason to run.
