The Unyielding Spirit of Terry Fox

Terry Fox, a Canadian, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at 18, leading to the amputation of his right leg. Inspired to make a difference, he embarked on the Marathon of Hope in 1980, aiming to run across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Starting in Newfoundland, Terry ran an average of a marathon a day with a prosthetic leg. His determination captivated the nation, but after 143 days and 5,373 kilometers, he had to stop in Ontario due to cancer spreading to his lungs. Terry passed away in 1981, but his legacy lives on through the annual Terry Fox Run, raising millions for cancer research worldwide.

Chronology

• 1958: Terry Fox was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
• 1976: At the age of 18, while studying at Simon Fraser University, Terry discovers he has a malignant tumor in his right leg. The leg is amputated 15 centimeters (6 inches) above the knee. The night before his amputation, Terry reads about an amputee runner, sparking the idea for the Marathon of Hope.
• 1977-1979: During this period, Terry begins to run, developing the distinctive hop-step running style suited to his prosthetic leg. He starts training for his cross-Canada run.
• April 12, 1980: Terry Fox begins the Marathon of Hope in St. John’s, Newfoundland, dipping his artificial leg in the Atlantic Ocean as a symbolic start.
• April to September 1980: Terry runs an average of 42 kilometers (26 miles) a day through six provinces. He becomes a national icon during this period, capturing the hearts of Canadians with his determination and courage.
• September 1, 1980: After 143 days and 5,373 kilometers (3,339 miles), Terry is forced to stop running outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario, because cancer has appeared in his lungs.
• February 1, 1981: Terry’s hope to finish the marathon himself is ended when he learns that the cancer has spread and his condition has worsened.
• June 28, 1981: Terry Fox passes away at Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster, British Columbia, one month before his 23rd birthday.
• September 1981 and onwards: The first Terry Fox Run is held, and it becomes an annual event. It grows to involve millions of participants in over 60 countries, becoming the world’s largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research.

Story

Terry Fox, born in Winnipeg, Canada, in 1958, was a young man with dreams and aspirations like many others. His life, however, took an unexpected turn when, at the age of 18, he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, leading to the amputation of his right leg above the knee.

Rather than succumbing to despair, Terry transformed his personal tragedy into a mission for the greater good. Inspired by the suffering of other cancer patients, particularly young children, he decided to run across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. This monumental journey was named the Marathon of Hope.

In April 1980, with an artificial leg, Terry began his cross-country marathon from St. John’s, Newfoundland. His goal was ambitious yet straightforward: to run the equivalent of a marathon a day until he reached the Pacific coast. Despite the physical pain and the immense challenge of running on a prosthetic leg, Terry’s determination never wavered.

As he journeyed through towns and cities, Terry’s story captured the heart of the nation. Canadians were deeply moved by the sight of this young man, limping yet unwavering, braving the elements and the fatigue, all for a cause greater than himself. Donations poured in, and the spirit of unity and generosity spread like wildfire.

However, after running for 143 days and covering over 5,300 kilometers, Terry’s journey came to a heart-wrenching halt in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The cancer had spread to his lungs. Though he could no longer continue, Terry had ignited a spark that would never be extinguished.

Terry Fox passed away in June 1981, but his legacy was just beginning. The entire nation mourned, but more importantly, they rallied. The Marathon of Hope had raised millions for cancer research, and Terry’s dream lived on. Today, the Terry Fox Run is an annual event celebrated worldwide, a testament to one man’s unyielding spirit to make a difference in the world.

Terry Fox remains a symbol of courage, hope, and the unwavering belief that it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His story is not just about a journey across a country; it’s about the journey of the human spirit, forever unyielding in the face of adversity.

Films

• “The Terry Fox Story” (1983): This is the first film about Terry Fox, released just a few years after his Marathon of Hope. It’s a biographical film that captures his determination and struggles. It’s significant for being one of the first feature films ever made for HBO and was also broadcast on CTV in Canada.
• “Terry” (2005): This is a Canadian television film that offers a dramatized account of Terry Fox’s life and his Marathon of Hope. The film provides a detailed look at his journey, from the diagnosis of cancer to the challenging cross-country run, and highlights his resilience and dedication.
• “Into the Wind” (2010): Directed by Steve Nash and Ezra Holland, this documentary is part of ESPN’s “30 for 30” series. It provides a poignant look at Terry Fox’s story, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and those who were inspired by his journey. The film is known for its emotional depth and comprehensive portrayal of his life and legacy.
• “Running for His Life: The Terry Fox Story“: Another biographical film that delves into the life of Terry Fox, focusing on his Marathon of Hope and the impact it had on Canada and the world.

Video

Help

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