Ben’s Memorial Mile & Community Festival

Ben’s Story

Benjamin Lee Silver was not only a son, brother, cousin, friend, teammate, captain, and fierce competitor—he was also a huge figure in his community: an enthusiastic and empathetic person who positively touched those around him. As a student at Downers Grove North High School, he was a four-time all-state athlete well known for his success on the track and cross-country course. Ben continued his athletic and academic pursuits at Miami University of Ohio, a top liberal-arts institution with a storied athletic history. However, during his college career he had a series of injuries and could not run, and his academics struggled as a result. He began acting erratically, and during the summer of his junior year he was diagnosed with schizophrenia, an often misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder that typically arises in late adolescence and early adulthood. Though Ben’s struggles with this terrible illness eventually led to him taking his life in July 2015, the influence he had as a family member, friend, teammate, captain, and competitor lives on.

Join us this year for the seventh-annual running of Ben’s Memorial Mile, a community running event and celebration of life. Regardless of your ability, there will be an event for you! Join us in celebrating Ben’s life, your life, and all lives, all while raising awareness for mental health issues in the United States. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a former all-stater searching for a new personal best or a couch potato—there will be an event for you. Join us!

Read Ben’s Full Story Play Video