Terry Fox Run still alive and growing
On April 12, 1980, Terry Fox visited Outer Cove Beach to dip his artificial leg in the Atlantic Ocean and collect two bottles of sea water.
His idea was to keep one bottle as a souvenir and the other he was planning to pour into the Pacific Ocean when he completed his Marathon of Hope (Marathon), the cross Canada run, initiated by Terry to raise funds for cancer research.
Although he may have not been well known when he started his Marathon, it took no time at all for the world to take notice, and start watching this determined young man as he travelled across Canada.
There was no way Terry could have predicted the positive impact he would have on people around the globe.
Here we stand 43 years later, and the vision Terry Fox had is still alive and still growing.
Records are still being set at Terry Fox Runs and cancer survivors are taking up Terry’s torch.
‘The Terry Fox Foundation is supporting world-class cancer research by the very best scientists in laboratories, clinics, and hospitals around the country. There is hope for a cure and new treatment options are arriving each day.’
Do you remember Terry’s dream, it was something he didn’t think was possible. His dream was to raise $1 from every Canadian – Terry achieved that dream and so much more.
The world mourned the loss of Terry Fox on June 26, 1981. In a very short time, he had become a member of everyone’s family.
Since Terry’s untimely passing, Terry Fox Runs around the world have continued in Terry’s honour, with more than $900 million having been raised.
Ongoing research made possible by donations through the Terry Fox Foundation have allowed great strides to be made, allowing researchers, clinicians and patient partners to work together allowing for a greater understanding in diagnosing, treating and preventing a disease that has affected too many already.
Terry said, “I want to set an example that will never be forgotten.”
Terry Fox did just that, he set an example that we will never forget – he is, and will remain, a hero among heroes!
PHOTO CAPTION: The annual Terry Fox Run has become a fall tradition in Canada, with nearly 600 communities, big and small, urban and rural, fundraising for cancer research. Pictured are some of the participants in the Baldur School Terry Fox Run held on Friday, September 13th. PHOTO SUZANNE PADDOCK
