NEW YORK, NY – GNUSA
The Joanna Sophia Foundation hosts its 7th Annual Joanna Sophia Fun Run/Walk “Around the World in 5K” on Saturday, June 20, to raise awareness about epilepsy and SUDEP, fund critical research and support families in need.
This unique annual event honors the memory of Joanna Sophia Ioannou, a vibrant 9-year-old who passed away in her sleep in November 2018 from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).
The starting point is at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, 196-10 Northern Boulevard in Flushing, NY, where final registration takes place and participants will pick up their official 2026 Joanna t-shirt and bib.
The run/walk starts at 10 AM and concludes at the finish line at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 11-05 150th Street in Whitestone, NY, where a festival takes place with food and beverages and rides for the kids plus a number of very special performances lined up from 11:30AM – 12:30PM.
It is estimated that approximately 3.4 million in the United States have active epilepsy, and more than 65 million globally. Additionally, 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point during their lifetime. Epilepsy can begin at any age. Studies haven’t identified a prime diagnosis time, but the incidence rate is highest in young children under 2 and adults aged 65 or older.
The Joanna Sophia Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing public awareness of epilepsy, supporting SUDEP research, and providing financial assistance to families caring for children with epilepsy. For more information, please visit
More information and registration are available online: https://shorturl.at/tV8zS
