A half marathon and 5K will take place in Washington on Saturday. The Race for Epilepsy — the second of its kind to take place here — will benefit CURE Epilepsy in Chicago.

The Race for Epilepsy is a non-profit organization. Its purpose is multifold: it seeks to find a cure for epilepsy, as well as to educate the public that some individuals may be able to overcome it and have a job.

There are stereotypes associated with epilepsy. Race director James Patterson III knows this well.

“Personally, I would like to raise awareness for people with epilepsy — what I used to have — how, depending on certain variables, can still work,” he said. “That’s the reason why this year I have three, four, maybe five people that are epileptic helping. They’re going to be issuing medals.”

Patterson wants to shake some stereotypes. Epileptics aren’t always prone to dropping to the floor with seizures, he says. Some cases are milder. He wants to show that while also building self-confidence.

The half marathon is one of just two in the country benefitting this cause. It’s certified by USA Track and Field, so it can be used for qualifications.

Those that took part in the race last year may notice some changes this time around. Patterson described the first iteration as a trial. This year’s event will feature a new course, and Patterson has ironed out some of the kinks from the first race.

“I learned a lot. I had a lot of support. Last year, I was kind of new to the area,” he said. “I did everything pretty much on my own. This year, I’ve had much more support, so it’s been more relaxed and laid back.

“The main difference this year is that we’ve changed the course a lot. I tried avoiding roads that are too busy. … It’s trial and error that you learn from.”

Patterson is expecting around 180 participants on Saturday. His broad goal is to have runners from all over North Carolina and neighboring states come to Washington for the annual event. Then, eventually, he’d like to not need it at all.

“My long-term goal is to eventually turn it into a full marathon,” Patterson said. “It’s a long-term project. … It’s something I love to do. Hopefully, down the road, it can be a big event and get more people involved from across the state and some other states.”

Registration is still open. Visit www.raceforepilepsy.org to sign up beforehand. The fee for the half marathon is $55. The 5K will cost $25, and entry for the fun walk is $5. Registration on race day will be an extra $10 for the half marathon or 5K, according to the website.

The half marathon and 5K begin at 7 a.m. Saturday at Washington Harbor. The fun walk starts at 7:45 a.m.