Rally around the effort on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Pascack Valley High School’s track and field, where Prusha will represent New Jersey in the nationwide effort, joined by Hillsdale volunteer EMT Isabella Zimmerman and Hillsdale Police Sgt. Dave Sayers.
PASCACK VALLEY—Jake Prusha is putting one foot in front of the other — 500 miles’ worth — for veterans, mental health awareness, and those who feel they are carrying their battles alone.
Prusha, a Hillsdale native and veteran firefighter, EMT and police dispatcher, launched his “50 States • 50 Days • 500 Miles” challenge in April. The effort calls for him to run 10 miles a day for 50 consecutive days, with each day representing a different state and honoring a fallen service member, a veteran, or a civilian.
He’s in the home stretch. His run Saturday, May 23 at the Pascack Valley High School track and field, puts him on the cusp of his 500th run, to be held on Memorial Day in Boston.
Prusha served in the U.S. Coast Guard as a health services technician and EMT/firefighter. He now works as an emergency department technician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital while building Become Weightless, a wellness and performance company focused on fitness and mental health support.
Prusha is raising funds for Wounded Warrior Project and calling attention to suicide prevention and military mental health.
The mission has tested him physically as well as emotionally. After being injured during the challenge, Prusha continued by walking the full 10 miles for several days — nearly three hours at a time — until he was able to run again. He documents the challenge on his Instagram.
This is not Prusha’s first major endurance effort for the cause. Last year, he completed the Murph Challenge every day for 100 consecutive days, raising $20,000 for Wounded Warrior Project.
Rally around the effort on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Pascack Valley High School’s track and field, where Prusha will represent New Jersey in the nationwide effort, joined by Hillsdale volunteer EMT Isabella Zimmerman and Hillsdale Police Sgt. Dave Sayers.
Attendees may run, walk or simply come out in support. It’s free. The event will feature a band, gift baskets, games, face painting and more. Runners register at 9:30 a.m.
Editor’s note: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.