On March 18, Fred Fox, Terry Fox’s brother, visited Alf Cuthbert School and Ashern Early Years School to honour their contributions to cancer research in Canada.
Both schools had significant achievements to celebrate, which prompted Fox’s visit. Fox began the day at Alf Cuthbert School to commemorate their 20-year anniversary of donating to the Terry Fox Foundation. Over the years, the school has raised a total of $14,863.90 for cancer research. Alann Fraser, the principal of Alf Cuthbert, was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet with Fox.
“Our visit with Fred was amazing,” she said.
During the visit, students had the chance to speak with Fox and ask him questions about Terry. They were also presented with a 20-year commemorative pennant. Mrs. Lanyth Tober, a teacher at the school, accepted the banner on behalf of the school. Additionally, student Conway Rawluk presented Fox with a special gift: an Alf Cuthbert t-shirt signed by all the staff and students.
In the afternoon, Fox traveled to Ashern Early Years School. Earlier in the school year, families at Ashern raised $3,200 for the Terry Fox Foundation, more than doubling their previous donation record. Andrea Gryba, a teacher at the school, was excited when she learned that Fox would be visiting.
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“A school visit from Fred Fox is a truly special event. Especially in Canada where Terry Fox’s legacy is continually recognized and held close to our hearts.”
During the visit, Fox shared family memories from their time living in Winnipeg and gave students insight into Terry’s life prior to his cancer diagnosis. He also discussed the emotions and challenges Terry faced during his Marathon of Hope.
At the end of the assembly, students had the opportunity to ask heartfelt questions about Terry—questions that only family members could answer. Fox’s visit concluded with a community walk down Main Street, where students created posters with inspirational messages and chanted Terry’s name. Gryba felt fortunate that she and her students could be part of this memorable day.
“It was an emotional and a once in a lifetime opportunity,” she said. “One that I will forever cherish.”
