Blade 5K and 1Mile Walk + Virtual Event

🏁 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

• 2019: The Blade 5K obtained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and began holding monthly board meetings.
• Nominations: The Board created a nomination process for deserving amputees to apply for financial assistance.
• Success: In July of 2019, The Blade 5K raised the funds needed to help our second recipient, Chris, get the blade he needed.

🌍 Adapting to change

• 2020: Shifted from an in-person race to a virtual format due to global circumstances.
• Record Breaker: Raised enough funds to help 9 year old Nathan get two running blades.
• Success Redefined: Realized that virtual events could help even more people.

🌟 Continued impact

• 2021: Helped three individuals return to their active lifestyle by providing necessary devices.
• 2022: Assisted another two recipients: Jessica received a specialized leg and Kyel received a Grit wheelchair.
• 2023: Funded devices for three individuals, including running blades for Benjamin and Sara.
• 2024: Supported two individuals: Sienna with an activity leg and Petra with attachments for her prosthetic arm.

🎉 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.

Register for The Blade 5K