2026 Wheatlake Wellness Walk and 5K

Join the fight against cancer and participate in the Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan: Wheatlake Wellness Walk and 5K on Saturday, May 16, 2026

We have both in-person and virtual options available. 

Registration includes:

- 2026 Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K race shirt

• Participants who pre-register by April 15 are guaranteed to receive a shirt. 
  Registrations after can choose from extra shirts during packet-pick up while supplies last. 

- Virtual Run/Walk option

- Timed 5K race with medals with top male and female finisher medals in age categories of

• 19 and younger
• 20 to 24
• 25 to 29
• 30 to 34
• 35 to 39
• 40 to 44
• 45 to 49
• 50 to 54
• 55 to 59
• 60 to 64
• 65 to 69
• 70 and up

- Pride knowing that you are supporting local patients fighting cancer 

- Results are live and will be available on this website after the event. Look for the QR code near the finish line! 

- Awards: Top award winners can pick up medals immediately after the race

- Children are allowed to participate with registered adults (strollers allowed).

The race is professionally timed by the Michigan Running Foundation. 

Consider sponsoring the 2026 Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K

Every step tells a story. This year, cancer fighters, survivors, and their loved ones will celebrate 20 years of stories at the 2026 Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

We invite you to partner with us on an event that brings our community together with a shared purpose: providing cancer wellness services to our family, friends and neighbors at the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center.

Partnership highlights

Eight levels are available, from $100 to $3,000. See the enclosed form for details.
Teams are welcome! Are you part of a workplace wellness program? Join us! 
Anyone, individual or team, can run in support or memory of current or former cancer patients.
 

Proceeds from this event support cancer wellness services at the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center, provided at no charge to patients, including:

·       Transportation assistance, to ensure all patients can travel for treatments.

·       On-site boutique appointments, such as wig and bra fittings.

·       Integrative therapies, including massage, acupuncture, and reflexology.

·       Support groups and educational sessions.

Take a look at the enclosed reply form to learn more about partnership packages. When you’ve made your selection, simply return the completed form with your preferred payment method.

Unable to partner, but interested in registering as a walker/runner or willing to spread the news? Check out the enclosed flier and display in your business and/or share with others. 

Your participation in the 20th Anniversary of the Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K will make a meaningful difference in the lives of friends, family members and community members on a cancer journey. Won’t you join us?

Sincerely,

Shelly Westbrook

Participants who pre-register by April 23rd are guaranteed to receive a shirt.  Registrations after 4/23 can choose from extra shirts during packet-pick up while supplies last. Shirts are available in size Adult XS thru 3XL. 

Friday, May 15, 2026

12 - 5:30 p.m.

Big Rapids Hospital Professional Office Building
705 Oak Street Ste 5, DOOR A
Big Rapids, MI 49307

Race Day Saturday, May 16, 2026

8 - 9 a.m.

Big Rapids Bandshell (behind Big Rapids Middle School)
500 N Warren Ave.
Big Rapids, MI US 49307

The 5K route will start and end at the Bandshell behind Big Rapids Middle School. The path will head north along the beautiful Riverwalk trail and circle back. The route is primarily flat and handicap accessible.

Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. 

A virtual event is an opportunity for you to support cancer care while on your individual schedule and avoid large crowds. Participants may choose a convenient time during daylight hours before Sunday, May 17, 2026 to run or walk anywhere in the world. 

You do not need to submit a time. A virtual race encourages you to run at your own pace by running, jogging or walking. 

We look forward to seeing your Wheatlake 5K Run/Walk experiences with your friends, kids or furry race partners!