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Terry Fox: A Canadian Hero
Terry Fox, born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, became a national icon and symbol of perseverance and hope. At the age of 18, he was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) and had his right leg amputated above the knee.
Inspired by the suffering he saw in the cancer ward, Fox decided to embark on an ambitious journey: the Marathon of Hope. His goal was to run across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. On April 12, 1980, Terry Fox began his marathon in St. John’s, Newfoundland, aiming to cover 42 kilometers (26 miles) each day.
Despite enduring intense pain and challenging weather conditions, Fox ran an incredible 5,373 kilometers (3,339 miles) over 143 days, capturing the hearts of Canadians and people worldwide. However, on September 1, 1980, his journey was cut short near Thunder Bay, Ontario, when cancer spread to his lungs, forcing him to stop.
Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, Fox’s goal to raise one dollar for every Canadian, or about $24 million, was reached on 1 February 1981. Since then, fundraising has continued in his name. His bravery and determination have inspired many, including Steve Fonyo, Rick Hansen and Isadore Sharp, who organized the first annual Terry Fox Run in 1981. Millions of people in Canada and around the world participate every year in the Terry Fox Run. The Terry Fox Foundation, which is overseen by Fox’s family and organizes the annual run, has raised more than $800 million for cancer research. The Terry Fox Research Institute in Vancouver, which “invests in world-class, collaborative cancer research teams and partnerships,” was founded in 2007.
Be part of the global movement to raise funds for cancer research and spread hope! Don't miss the chance to join for Terry Fox Run in Penang!
Terry Fox Runs are being organised across the globe with the goal of raising funds for cancer research. For millions of people around the world, Terry Fox is the face of hope for research in finding cures for cancer. With the success of Terry Fox Run Melaka, we are now bringing Terry Fox Run to Penang. Just like Terry's goal to run across Canada, we would like to create awareness on cancer research across Malaysia and hope to grow to more cities in the future. Terry Fox Run Penang welcomes all, regardless of age, athletic ability or socio-economic standing. The event is a non-competitive, family-oriented fun run. You can run, jog, walk, skate or even ride on someone’s shoulders: the race is against cancer. All donations will go towards empowering cancer research.
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