There are several slogans that come to mind when I think about what I love about being a very small part of the Terry Fox team. First of all, the team is overwhelmingly volunteer! The Terry Fox Foundation is still animated by the inspiration dream that Terry had. But, as we know, Terry died in 1981 and it is now a wonderful part of the traditions in Canada about what happens in September. For more than a generation, people have taken time to be part of the dream and so come out to Bowen Island's non-competitive, all-inclusive fundraising walk/run. This year's Terry Fox Run is this Sunday, September 18, at 11:30 at Collin's Hall.
Terry Fox was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) in his right leg in 1977 and had his leg amputated 15 cm (six inches) above the knee. While in hospital, Terry was so overcome by the suffering of other cancer patients that he decided to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. He called his journey the Marathon of Hope.
Terry's Marathon of Hope took place in 1980 with the simple objective of informing Canadians of the importance of finding a cure for cancer. With fierce determination, he ran an average of 42 kilometres (26 miles) every day for 143 days. Terry was forced to end his run on September 1, 1980 when the cancer spread to his lungs.
By February 1, 1981, Terry's dream of raising $1 for every Canadian was realized - the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope fund totaled $24.17 million. Terry died in June 1981.
The Terry Fox Foundation is responsible for supporting close to $20 million in discovery-based research each year in Canada.
TFR Institute is an exciting new initiative whose goal is to translate rapidly today's best science into better cancer treatment and diagnosis for all Canadians. The institute will bring scientists and clinicians together across the country into a functionally integrated, geographically dispersed institute with centres in several provinces.
The Foundation recognizes the duality of its mandate. Not only does it raise money for research, but it also continues to share the story of Terry Fox. The Terry Fox Foundation strives to maintain the heroic effort and integrity that Terry embodied.
It is a grassroots organization that does not allow the Terry Fox name or likeness to be commercialized or conjoined with other worthy causes.
To date, over $550 million has been raised worldwide for cancer research in Terry's name.
Come and join us!
SHELAGH McKINNON
Little Red Church
