Blade 5K and 1Mile Walk + Virtual Event 2026

Description

How we started:

In 2018, our friend and former Ironman Nate Wigdahl, had recently become an amputee due to a devastating injury. He desperately wanted to start running again and we knew that we could count on Omaha's running community to help him achieve his dream. He knew that insurance wouldn't cover the cost of a running blade and he knew he had his work cut out for him. So Nate and a few friends decided to host a 5K fundraiser, and called it The Blade 5K . The quickly put-together event was a huge success and with the funds raised we were able to purchase a blade for Nate. Nate had an even deeper desire to help other amputees to overcome obstacles to living their best healthy lifestyle.

Our momentum:

In 2019, The Blade 5K obtained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, and began holding monthly board meetings. The Board of Directors created a nomination process, so that other deserving amputees could apply to receive the proceeds from our race to pay for the (non-covered) cost of the specialized device. July of 2019, The Blade 5K raised the funds needed to help our second recipient, Chris, get the blade he needed to get back to his healthy running lifestyle.

In 2020, the world threw us a curveball and we shifted our event from an in-person race, to a virtual format. We shattered our previous record, and raised enough funds to help 9 year old Nathan get not one , but two running blades so he could achieve his dream of keeping up with his friends. The Blade 5K doesn't believe in limits, and after seeing the success of our first virtual event, we realized that the convenience of a virtual event actually helps more people!

In 2021, The Blade 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk raised funds to help three individuals get devices to get them back to their active lifestyle. Jim received a running blade, Anita received a tandem bike, and Connie received a wheelchair.

In 2022, we were fortunate enough to help another 2 recipients. Jessica received a specialized leg and Kyel received a Grit wheelchair. They are now able to participate in the events/activities they once loved.

In 2023, The Blade 5K raised enough funds to help 3 individuals get them back to their active lifestyle. Benjamin received a running blade, Sara also received a running blade, and Carter received a prosthetic to help him with everyday activities including sports.

In 2024, The Blade 5K raised enough funds to help 2 individuals get back to their active lifestyle. Sienna received an activity leg to help her keep up with her family and friends. Petra received 4 attachments for her prosthetic arm to help her do workouts that helped her prepare for the paralympics that she competed in and brought home a silver medal in the long jump!

In 2025,The Blade 5K raised enough funds to help 2 individuals get back to their active lifestyle. Luke received a Micro Knee Processor, and Alec received a running blade, these devices are helping these two stay active. Blade

Today:

Our focus is twofold: helping individuals with limb difference who need specialized devices to get back to their active lifestyle, as well as growing the amputee community in the midwest. The Blade 5K run/1 mile walk will be held in-person at College of Saint Mary's campus Saturday, July 11, 2026 and is also open to the world via our virtual option.

We look forward to seeing you there, whether here in Omaha, or whatever city you may be joining us from!

As always, we are so grateful for your support.