Terry Fox would ride his bike with his brothers to pick blueberries for spending money. He cheered for the Vancouver Canucks and was full of life.
When he was 18, he was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) in his right leg, just above the knee. His right leg was amputated. On April 12, 1980, in St. John's, Newfoundland, Fox dipped his leg in the Atlantic Ocean and began running.
He ran an average of 42 kilometres per day for 143 days. He ran 5,373 kilometres before his cancer returned, forcing him to stop. On June 28, 1981, Terry Fox passed away. The Terry Fox Run/Walk was then born.
It has been 45 years of impact, discovery, and hope. Last year alone, more than $24-million was raised through the Terry Fox Run and the Terry Fox School Run. Since its inception 45 years ago, more than $950-million has been raised for cancer research.
This weekend, the annual event is back, and several communities in the Parkland are in on the action. In Dauphin, Stephen Roznowsky is back. He's been hosting this event for 25 years.
"Momentum is one way to put it. I'm very excited because it's the 45th Anniversary," said Roznowsky. "There seems to be a lot of media press not only locally, but nationally for the run."
In Dauphin, the event will take place at Vermillion Park on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. While you are more than welcome to sprint the entire time, Roznowsky says everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
"All runs are non-competitive and are all-inclusive," said Roznowsky. "You can run, walk, rollerblade, or take your bike. Any form of transporation is welcome."
Stephen and his crew will be set up at the Co-op Food Store in Dauphin on Friday and Saturday to accept donations.
"Starting about 9:30 a.m. and going until about 5:00 p.m.," ended Roznowsky. "You can also donate online at TerryFox.org.
Roznowsky says no donation is too small. He understands if you can only afford a few dollars and appreciates your support.
