The Legacy of Terry Fox

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No sarcasm here, a true Canadian hero/Jingyu Zhang

No sarcasm here, a true Canadian hero/Jingyu Zhang

Thirty-three years later, his memory is still strong.

Sports Editor: Matt Wincherauk

Over the course of his short lifetime, Terry Fox left behind a lasting legacy, not only in terms of his phenomenal athletic accomplishments during his Marathon of Hope across Canada, but in the way that he inspired people to continue his fight against cancer.

The University of Regina’s Terry Fox Run event, which took place last week, is one of many throughout the Province of Saskatchewan and the rest of the country. From elementary schools, to high schools, post-secondary institutions, and businesses, the good work of Terry Fox and the people that carry on his message have a resounding impact each and every year.

The legacy that Terry Fox left after he was taken by cancer is one of perseverance and triumph. It might sound a tad cheesy, but he is proof that despite setbacks and all the impediments that might hold you back in the world, you can still be a powerful force for positive change. As Terry said, “It took cancer to realize that being self-centered is not the way to live. The answer is to try and help others.”

According to the Terry Fox Organization, they have raised over $650 million dollars for cancer research in their over 30 year history, but more than that, they provide awareness and give hope to those who are affected by cancer.

Terry’s physical accomplishment during his run across Canada was astounding. He ran 42 kilometers per day, over the course of 143 days – more than a full marathon every day that he was out on his Marathon of Hope. He travelled over 5,300 kilometers in total, an amazing accomplishment for someone in optimal health, let alone someone in Terry Fox’s condition. Makes you feel like maybe you can go out for that run, even if it’s not very nice out or you’ve had a long day at school.

As a runner, the Terry Fox Run has been something that I have been very invested in over the course of my fifteen years in school. I can recall many runs that we made in high school. As a competitive person, I took this run very seriously as well. I can proudly say that I finished the run first in three out of my four years at Luther College High School. However, it is so much more than just competition. It is amazing to see running be such a positive force for good and change in our world, and I am happy that I have been a part of this for so many years.

Terry Fox may have passed away 33 years ago, but his message of hope remains ever the same. Thanks to the people who help run events at our University and many others like it across the country, his message continues to live on. Terry started this journey and it is special to see it carried on by so many caring and quality people.

In Terry’s words, “Even if I don’t finish, we need others to continue. It’s got to keep going without me.”

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