Dear editor:

Wednesday, April 12, 1980 – the day it all began.

That was the day, 43 years ago, when 21-year-old Terry Fox started his Marathon of Hope.

Accompanied by his best friend Doug Alward (who drove the van while Terry ran a marathon a day), he dipped his artificial leg into the Atlantic Ocean at St. John’s, Nfld., to begin his run across Canada to raise money for innovative cancer research.

It was the beginning of a legacy that has inspired a whole nation and has had a monumental impact on cancer research in Canada.

Terry became a symbol of hope, courage and selflessness. His legacy has inspired generations of Canadians from all walks of life in deeply personal ways.

The more you learn about Terry the person and his unique ability to inspire others, the more passionate you become about honouring his legacy at a local run.

Millions of Canadians feel compelled to follow his example year after year. You could be one of them this Sept. 17, 2023, at Simcoe Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Registration is now open at TerryFox.org.

If you are interested in supporting a team, consider Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Team Pillsy, led by Joe Pillitteri, as the team has a huge goal again this year.

And if you are interested in this year’s commemorative T-shirt, I can take your order.

The theme is “Dear Terry” and you will be encouraged to write a message that inspires you and why you continue to honour his legacy.

Maybe you have a story to share about the impact Terry has had in your life.

We are looking forward to the support of the NOTL community at this year’s Terry Fox Run on Sunday, Sept. 17.

To order a shirt, please contact me at joankemp10@yahoo.ca or text me at 905-358-4358.

With gratitude,

Joan King
NOTL run co-ordinator