Cade’s Cause: Concussion & CTE Awareness Run/Walk

Cade's Cause

Cade's Cause is a community event created to honor Dr. Cade Carlson, raise awareness about the lasting impact of concussions and repetitive head impacts, and turn our unimaginable loss and grief into purpose.

Cade's Diagnosis

We recently learned that Cade was diagnosed with Stage II Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). When we attended the Concussion & CTE Foundation Legacy Family Huddle in January 2026 and heard clinicians describe the symptoms — the behavioral changes, the struggles that come with this disease — we had a profound realization: this explained so much. Looking back, we could see the signs had been building steadily over the years. We just didn't have the language for it at the time.

When the diagnosis was confirmed, we weren't surprised. We were heartbroken to know he had been quietly struggling. But alongside that grief came something else — a deep sense of purpose. CTE is a horrible disease, but it is also a preventable one. Spreading awareness feels like the most meaningful thing we can do to honor Cade and protect others.

The Day's Events

The day will begin at 8:30am with a Celebration of Life preceding the race — a time for friends, family, and all those that knew Cade to gather, reflect, and remember Cade together before we walk/run.

The race will begin at 10:30am, and directly following the race, we invite everyone to stay for live music with Pennies on the Track, food truck food for purchase, and time to simply be together — sharing stories, honoring his life and legacy, and standing behind a cause that matters deeply to our family.

Whether you come to run, walk, or just show up, your presence means everything. The loop is about 1.5 miles!

Note: Casual dress code.  Be comfortable and ready to walk.  We will be outside and there is no seating at the amphitheater for the Celebration of Life. Please bring your own picnic blankets and camping chairs if you prefer to not sit on the grass.  You are also welcome to bring coolers and food to picnic if you prefer.

Please visit Event Details & FAQ Here for more information on the race day event

Registration Fees & Donations

Registration includes a T-shirt and bib for sign-ups before June 11, 2026. After that date, T-shirts are no longer guaranteed. All proceeds beyond event costs go to the Concussion & CTE Foundation in Cade's honor.

If you are not participating in the Run/Walk or you would like to make additional contributions for this cause, please donate in Cade's name, directly to the Concussion & CTE Foundation's Race to End CTE.