The 45th annual Terry Fox Run takes place Sept. 14, with thousands of Canadians expected to walk, run, roll or ride in communities across the country in support of cancer research.
Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope in 1980, running more than 5,300 kilometres in 143 days before cancer forced him to stop near Thunder Bay, Ont. His determination sparked a movement that continues to raise millions each year.
“Together, we can finish it,” is the theme of this year’s campaign.
Two in five Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Donations to the Terry Fox Run directly support cancer research, which has improved survival rates for many cancers to more than 80 per cent.
Each year, participants who have survived or are living with cancer are recognized as Terry’s Team Members and wear red T-shirts to mark the progress of research. Their presence on run day is a living reminder of why the fundraising matters.
“I wouldn’t be here without the research,” said Winnipeg participant Susan Wenzlawski.
She was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2019 after discovering a lump in her throat. Following surgery, she did not require chemotherapy or radiation but continues to take thyroid medication.
“I am very grateful to say I have been six years cancer-free,” she said. “The success rate for my kind of cancer is over 90 per cent and that is absolutely because of Terry’s belief in needing cancer research.”
Now volunteering with the Winnipeg run, Wenzlawski helps raise money to ensure others can share her outcome.
The Terry Fox Run is a non-competitive, family-friendly event open to everyone. Registration and fundraising information is available at terryfox.org.
Since 1981, the Terry Fox Foundation has raised more than $950 million and funded over 1,300 cancer research projects nationwide.
According to the run.terryfox.ca website there are a number of runs that you can join throughout the Interlake this year, including, Stonewall, Selkirk Arborg.
