Time to Start Planning for Matty's Memorial Day 5K

Formed out of the tragic loss of 5 year-old Matthew Siravo due to complications from an epileptic seizure, The Matty Fund has grown to become a nationally-recognized nonprofit that provides a wide-range of resources to children and families living with epilepsy. On Monday, May 26, the organization will host its 12th Annual Matty’s Memorial Day 5K for Epilepsy. 

Supported by presenting sponsor Bank Rhode Island (BankRI), the event will be held in downtown Wakefield for the first time since its inception in 2003. It will be immediately followed by Wakefield’s Memorial Day Parade.

“The collaboration with BankRI is fantastic; they’re a company that cares deeply about giving back and will be a tremendous addition to Wakefield and the South County community,” says Richard Siravo, Founder of The Matty Fund. “Having Rhode Island icons like BankRI and Tarbox Toyota support the 5K allows us to grow the event and provide more funding for research, education, and family support activities throughout the year.” 

The morning of activities begins with a Kid’s Dash at 8:30 a.m., followed by a USA Track & Field-certified 5K run and walk at 9:00 a.m. The 5K will begin at BankRI’s new Wakefield branch—located at 290 Main Street and scheduled to open in early May—before ending at the Mew’s Tavern. Throughout the morning, there will be a series of family activities and a special kid’s zone. At the end of the event, the Mew’s Tavern will host an outdoor BBQ for participants. 

On-site registration starts at 7:00 a.m. and participants may also register online at www.MattyFund5k.com in advance of race day. Those who register before May 20 will receive an early discounted registration fee.

“We’re excited to not only serve as the presenting sponsor of Matty’s Memorial Day 5K and support the life-changing work of this inspirational organization, but also for the opportunity to have the race begin at our new branch,” said Mark J. Meiklejohn, President & CEO of BankRI. “This event is a perfect example of the community involvement we’re committed to with our expansion to South County.”