Since its first Terry Fox Run in 1991, Niagara-on-the-Lake has raised $1.8 million for cancer research. The run’s organizer says the community is ready to add even more when the event returns Sept. 14.
“We like to support those people who are still fighting. We honour those who have won that fight and we remember the ones who’ve lost the fight,” said Joan King.
The 45th annual run inspired by Fox’s cross-country Marathon of Hope in 1980 begins at 10 a.m. in Simcoe Park, with registration opening an hour earlier.
“We’ve learned so many good qualities from Terry,” said King.
“The run celebrates Terry’s spirit, his determination — and it inspires millions to participate and to donate.”
Participants can walk, run or roll along King and Queen streets, with distances clearly marked and the route accessible to wheelchairs, bicycles and rollerblades.
“A beautiful walk or run,” King said.
This year’s theme, “Finish it,” highlights Fox’s unfinished dream of finding a cure, she said.
Proceeds raised by the Terry Fox Foundation support the Terry Fox Research Institute, which funds world-class cancer research across Canada and beyond — bringing cancer “closer to a cure,” King said.
Almost $50,000 has already been raised through the NOTL donation page, run.terryfox.ca/92906.
“We’ve done very well as a community,” said King.
The amount raised “shows that people believe in Terry, what he’s done, what he’s created,” she added.
“It’s just so admirable.”
King is optimistic about surpassing the run’s $122,800 goal, she said.
“We’re already halfway there and the run hasn’t even happened,” she said, but added that “you never know what people are going to contribute or donate.”
“I hope we do,” she said.
The most powerful part of the event, for King, is the way it unites the town.
“It just warms your heart to see people supporting each other, a community believing in what this is all about,” she said.
“It’s just a good feeling.”
Those who can’t join the run can still support by donating online, directly or to a team or participant, on the town’s donation page. Supporters can also donate at terryfox.org.
Terry Fox T-shirts will be for sale at the run, with some also available early at Grape Escape or by messaging King directly at facebook.com/joan.king.7587.
Residents are encouraged to check the event webpage for updates leading up to run day.
