The legacy of Canadian Terry Fox lives on and the Marathon Of Hope reaches a new milestone, celebrating it’s 40th anniversary on Sunday, September 20th.
While it won’t be the celebration they had planned, older brother of Terry, Fred Fox says the support and passion for Terry’s vision will continue virtually this year.
Fox says the purpose of the run is more important than ever.
“Even thought we’ve all been dealing with COVID for the last several months, people are still dealing with cancer. It’s still important to raise money for cancer research and participate virtually in the annual Terry Fox Run.”
The decision to go virtual was made back in April by the Terry Fox Foundation, due to COVID-19.
Whether it’s a lap around the track or a walk in the park, Fox says people are encouraged to go for a walk and stay in their social bubbles while supporting the cause.
“We’re hoping people that have participated in the Terry Fox Run over the years will step it up and try that much harder during this more difficult year. Research is so important and Terry saw that 40 years ago. 800 million dollars later and the impact has been incredible for cancer research in this country.”
Fox says they hope to see people posting on social media, using the hashtag #tryliketerry and sharing their efforts online since they can’t be together in person this year.
Meanwhile, schools across Canada are also finding new ways to participate in the run, hopefully later this month.
When asked about some of his best memories from Terry’s marathon, Fred said one that stands out was his brother’s drive and determination throughout the rough landscape of Northern Ontario.
“Later on (during the marathon) in Northern Ontario, near Wawa my wife and I spent 4 days with Terry. Any time spent with Terry was great, but especially in Northern Ontario and running with Terry and watching him make his way through all the many hills that he climbed.”
Fox has worked at the Terry Fox Foundation for the last 12 years, touring Canada and speaking at schools.
“You see the passion and commitment and dedication that Canadians have to continue what Terry started. Those are always great memories, meeting new people and seeing all of Canada every year.”
Click here to register for the virtual run and listen to the full interview with Fred Fox below.
