Ryan's Run to benefit Lake Forest Hospital

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the cost for a family of four or more to participate in the event, which features a 5K run or walk around Big and Little Bear Lakes, is $22 per person. For information visit http://www.ryanbrierefoundation.org/

Lori Briere often thinks about what Ryan would be like today. Her son would probably be finishing swim lessons and maybe getting a little nervous about the start of second grade. Whatever his future held, Briere is certain of one thing.

"Ryan would've been happy because he was one of those toddlers who was never sad or upset," said Briere, who lives in Buffalo Grove. "He wanted everyone around him to be happy and we want to continue that spirit, to remember Ryan and to make people smile in his honor."

In 2011, 2-year-old Ryan choked on a hot dog and died while he was out to dinner with his family. Every year since his passing, Ryan's parents, Lori and Frederick Briere, have held Ryan's Run to remember their son and to give back to local organizations that help children. This year, the family is donating the event's proceeds to pediatric services, such as art and music therapy, at the new Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, which is slated to open in fall 2017.

"Ryan was born at Lake Forest Hospital and we know this campus is a special place for his family," said Thomas J. McAfee, president of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital. "We are so grateful to the Briere family for supporting our pediatric patients, our hospital and our community."

Every year, close to 600 people attend Ryan's Run, and many are people the Brieres don't know.

"We have a lot of family and friends who come, but I actually get excited when I see a name pop up on the registration page that I don't recognize," Lori Briere said. "That means this is spreading, it's getting bigger. This is a great event for families and for lots of kids, and Ryan would have loved it."

Ryan's Run will be from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, at Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, in Vernon Hills. The event will include a balloon entertainer, inflatable bounce house, face painting and more. While runners enjoy a scenic 5K run or walk around Big and Little Bear lakes, families will be able to participate in the various activities. Cost is $25 per person or $220 for a family of four or more.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the 5K run/walk begins at 9 a.m., while the one-mile family walk begins at 10 a.m. The race will begin at Century Park's sled hill on the north side of the park, next to the Century Park Pavilion, where registration and family activities will take place.

Visit www.ryanbrierefoundation.org/ to donate or register for Ryan's Run. For information about philanthropy opportunities at Lake Forest Hospital, call (847) 535-6111.

For information about the construction of the new Lake Forest Hospital, visit nlfh.nm.org