It’s Terry Fox Run season, and local organizers are calling on residents to lace up and join the national movement to fund cancer research.
With just six weeks to go until the 45th annual Terry Fox Run on Sunday, Sept. 14, there’s still plenty of time to join an existing run, create a team, or start your own event. In Manitoba alone, more than 25 community runs are already planned.
Terry Fox Day, the official name for Manitoba’s August long weekend holiday, marks a symbolic starting point for communities to kick off their fundraising efforts. Volunteers are encouraged to launch or support events of all kinds in the lead-up to Run Day.
“You could organize a team to participate in an established run, host a fundraiser at your workplace, or create your own Terry Fox Run,” said a statement from the Terry Fox Foundation. “Six weeks is plenty of time to support Terry’s dream of a world without cancer.”
Local events don’t need to be held on Terry Fox Run Day to count. Fundraisers can take many forms — from backyard BBQs and school challenges to memorial walks or fitness classes — and all are welcome as part of the campaign.
Fred Fox, Terry’s older brother and a spokesperson for the foundation, reflected on the dedication of thousands of volunteers who keep his brother’s legacy alive.
“Terry would be humbled by the many, many people that give of their time to volunteer and allow others the opportunity to participate in a Terry Fox Run and fundraise in his name,” Fred said. “During the Marathon of Hope, Terry said, ‘Even if I don’t finish, we need others to continue. It’s got to keep going.’ I don’t think even he envisioned the thousands of people that are working hard to Finish It.”
Volunteer-driven since its inception, the Terry Fox Run continues to be one of Canada’s most beloved grassroots fundraising events. Organizers say the 45th anniversary is a perfect opportunity to get involved — whether by walking, donating, or volunteering.
To learn more or to get involved, visit terryfox.org/volunteer or contact volunteer@terryfox.org. For interview requests with Fred Fox, email carissa.robb@terryfox.org.
