4th Annual Seize the Day:
Amer’s Epilepsy Trail Run
10K, 5K Race & One-Mile Fun Run*

* Walkers and hikers welcome for all races. Dogs on leash permitted.

Thank you!

The 4th Annual Seize the Day: Amer’s Epilepsy Trail Run was a huge success! Click here to view results, photos and read a recap of the event.

Donate to the 2025 Race

There’s still time to support this year’s race. Click here to make an online donation. Or, send a check payable to EPI and mail it to:

EPI
1650 South Ave.
Rochester, NY 14620

General Event Information

Courses

The 5K and 10K races start and end at the North Meadow Trailhead, located on Canfield Road, between Douglas Road and Pittsford-Mendon Center Road. The One-Mile Fun Run/Walk follows the Pine Woods trail across the street. See map for details.

Race Packet

All participants pick up their race bib on race day, starting at 8:00 am. There is no pre-race packet pick up.

Water Stations

There are water stations on both the 10K and 5K courses.

Proceeds

Money raised from Seize the Day helps fund EPI and its epilepsy programs and services that support thousands of children and adults in Upstate New York with epilepsy and seizure disorders.

Map & Parking

Routes: Map
Parking: Beach area off Douglas Road
Check-In: Canfield Road near Douglas Road

Schedule

8:00 am: Check-in and on-site registration
9:00 am: 10K and 5K races start (timed races)
9:30 am: One-Mile Fun Run Starts (untimed race)
11:15 am: Awards

Weather

The races run rain or shine, except in the presence of thunder and lightning. Check back here for details if the weather looks temperamental.

Volunteer on Race Day!

Volunteers are critical to the success of this event. We’ll have an online volunteer sign up posted after the first of the year.

Help Promote this Event!

We’d love your help getting the word out about this incredible race. Click here to share the event recap page on social media. Connect and tag us on your posts!
Facebook | X | Instagram | LinkedIn

2025 Event Chair: Nyla

My name is Nyla Armbruster. My brother, Amer, was the race founder after he was diagnosed with epilepsy. Now that he’s away at college, I’ve taken over fundraising and promotion of his race.

This race has been important to our whole family since epilepsy has affected all of us.  While I don’t have epilepsy, I remember how hard it was when Amer was diagnosed. I was pretty young, and it was terrifying sitting in the hospital after his first seizure.  I also remember the sound of him having a seizure and falling down in the locked bathroom one morning. I felt helpless while we tried to find a way to break into the room.  And, even though I am four years younger than Amer, there were times when I felt that I had to be in charge when my parents went out, so I worried a lot.

Now, Amer has his seizures under control. There were a lot of challenges, but we are lucky that his case has proven milder than others. Amer decided a few years ago that he wanted to help those who were less fortunate. Using his passion for running as inspiration, he started Amer’s Epilepsy Trail Run, a charity effort to help families that are struggling with epilepsy. I am proud to take it over and try to build on what he created.

Amer’s Story

In 2019, Amer Armbruster was diagnosed with epilepsy.  An avid runner and cross-country skier, he was initially unable to compete due to the uncertainty of his seizures.  With the help of friends, family, and physicians, Amer discovered ways to work with his diagnosis and get back to the activities he loves.  After finding his way, Amer recognizes that his case is mild, and that other people can suffer much more severe side effects causing significant life interruptions. Through the Seize the Day Race, Amer hopes to raise awareness about epilepsy, highlight the resources available to individuals and families and provide support to young people who may find themselves in the same place.

Watch Amer’s Story

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors

Mr. David Vaden