The mayor of Burnaby has proclaimed September as Terry Fox Month, and, to commemorate the Canadian icon and raise money for cancer research, a run will be held at Swangard Stadium on National Run Day, Sunday, Sept. 16.
Terry Fox ran 3,339 miles in 1980 to raise money and awareness about cancer before succumbing to the disease that had already robbed him of one leg.
The 34th annual Burnaby Terry Fox Run starts its registration at 9 a.m. and the opening ceremonies take place at 10 a.m. followed by two-kilometre, five-kilometre or 10-kilometre circuits that participants can walk, run or cycle.
“We recognize the limitless potential Burnaby has to reach the public, recruit new volunteers and help us build on the $750 million already raised for cancer research worldwide, in Terry’s name,” said Serena Meister, recreation and promotions assistant with the Terry Fox Foundation.
Over the years, the Burnaby Terry Fox Runs have raised almost $390,000. Of all the money raised by the Terry Fox Foundation, 82 per cent goes directly to cancer research.
“Reaching out to the public is crucial as total community involvement is needed to maintain the high level of donations we raise for cancer research initiatives,” Meister added.
The Terry Fox Run is non-competitive, and registration is by donation – there is no minimum pledge.
Participants can be recognized as a corporate team, an individual participant or a member of “Terry’s Team,” made up of cancer survivors.
“The Terry Fox Run has been with us in Burnaby since 1985,” said Donna White, provincial director for B.C./Yukon. “An astounding $383,000 has been raised at the Burnaby run for innovative cancer research.”
Terry Fox ran 42 kilometres almost every day from April to September 1980 on his Marathon of Hope, a total of 143 days, with one leg. He started in St. John’s, Nfld., and made it to Thunder Bay, Ont., where he found out cancer had spread to his lungs. He passed away on June 28, 1981.
The Burnaby route is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs as well as bikes, but dogs are not allowed in Swangard Stadium where the opening ceremonies and the start/run line is located.
To volunteer for the run, contact Donna White at [email protected]. For more information about the Terry Fox Foundation, go to www.terryfox.org.
