STRAIN FOR THE BRAIN

Strain for the Brain is an annual event held to honor individuals diagnosed with a brain tumor and to

celebrate the family and friends there to support them.  Brain tumors are a devastating disease that affects 80,000 people and their families each year. The funds raised through Strain for the Brain will directly contribute to advancements in research, medical treatments, and support programs for individuals and families impacted by this life-changing condition.  By participating in Strain for the Brain, you will not only contribute to the fight against brain tumors but also showcase your dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by this disease.  

Strain for the Brain is a Milwaukee based 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization started in 2010 by a brain tumor survivor.  It is an annual event held to honor individuals diagnosed with a brain tumor and to celebrate the family and friends there to support them.  The funds raised through SFTB will directly contribute to advancements in research, medical treatments, and support programs for individuals and families impacted by this life-changing condition.  

Since 2010, SFTB has donated over $750,000 to the brain tumor program at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Persons with any financial limitations please contact organizers to discuss a Fee Waiver.

History of Strain for the Brain

Mike is a brain tumor survivor who started Strain for the brain in 2010 to raise awareness of this rare disease.  The event started small along the lakefront at Veterans Park, originally in May which is brain tumor awareness month.  After one particularly chilly event of sleet and snow flurries, it moved to the first weekend of June at Miller Park (currently American Family Stadium) and then to Harley Davidson Museum.  Ultimately, the event outgrew that space and has returned to Veterans Park.  While Mike had many people help him along the way, it was his persistence and determination to support the cause that kept the event going year after year.  Due to the growth of the event, Mike has turned the operations over to Dr. Jennifer Connelly but still is an active participant.

Join fellow runners on May 30, 2026 for the STRAIN FOR THE BRAIN. It's a fantastic 1.6K, 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Milwaukee.