September 12, 2014
In 1980, Terry Fox ran his legendary Marathon of Hope to raise money for cancer research. His goal was to raise just one dollar per Canadian by running across the country. Every day, for 143 days, this young man completed the equivalent of one marathon, running on an artificial leg. Terry had osteosarcoma, a form of sarcoma or cancer of the bones that affects individuals of all ages, but is especially common in children and young adults.
Tragically, Terry had to cut his run short when his cancer returned, but he still raised a staggering $24 million for cancer research during his run. To date, the Terry Fox Foundation has raised over $650 million towards cancer research worldwide. Each September, along with community events across Canada, school children around the world honour Terry through sponsored runs supporting cancer research.
This year, the Terry Fox Run will take place on September 14th. I encourage everyone to participate and I am proud to know that your pledges continue to ensure that Terry's dedication to cancer research lives on. To learn about events in your community, please visit the Terry Fox Foundation.
On behalf of all Canadians, I express our gratitude to the Fox family and the Terry Fox Foundation for their outstanding commitment to cancer research in Canada and around the world.
The Honourable Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
