Terry Fox Dream to Fight Cancer Lives On!
THUNDER BAY – Thirty-three years ago, Terry Fox stopped his run, just twelve kilometres from Thunder Bay. The iconic runner who was running across Canada to raise awareness and money to fight cancer was halted when cancer returned. On September 1st, 1980 after 143 days and 5,373 kilometres (3,339 miles), Terry was forced to stop running just outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario
The cancer had returned to his lungs making it impossible for him to continue. Terry Fox’s story is remarkable journey and a celebration of hope, love, and courage.
Most importantly, it was a celebration of life. Terry Fox brought us all a little closer, made us all a little better.
Terry Fox showed us what is possible if you dream big.
In the years since Terry Fox had to halt his run, his dream and his goal have been picked up by people in Thunder Bay, and around the world.
The fight against cancer has continued. There are more stories of success all the time as people win their personal battles against cancer.
Terry Fox Cancer Fight Continues Every Day
I remember hearing the news that Terry Fox had stopped his run. I was driving by Lakehead University, and was right beside the cemetery when the news came across the AM Radio. It was raining a little, and it was a fitting feeling that everyone was feeling. It was as if the clouds were sending down tears too.
In the years since Terry Fox stopped his run the annual Terry Fox Run and the Terry Fox Foundation have held the torch high.
In August the Board announced changes as the organization continues forward.
“Terry’s dreams and ambitions have been nourished and kept alive all these years by the dedication of his family and the ever-present advice of Mr. Sharp”, remarked Bill Pristanski, incoming Terry Fox Foundation Board Chair. “Today the torch is being passed to a new group of passionate Terry Foxers. We are indeed humbled by the responsibility and we take very seriously the stewardship of Terry’s cause. While many Canadians can recall direct personal memories of Terry, there are new generations that only know the great inspirational story of his Marathon of Hope. As we accept this torch as new board members, we understand our role is to ensure that successive generations keep that story alive.”
To keep the dream alive, every year Canadians and other people around the world who have been, and continue to be inspired by Terry Fox. Those people sign up and participate in the annual Terry Fox run on September 15th.
There are few people in Northwestern Ontario whose lives have not been touched by cancer. We have all had friends, family members, and loved ones that this awful disease has attacked.
Terry Fox was and is an inspiration for everyone. His big dream continues.
His big dream is now our dream to continue and keep alive.
James Murray
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