Terry Fox Day

Terry Fox Day is dedicated to the memory of Terry Fox, a Canadian activist who ran 5,373 kilometers to raise funds for cancer patients. Terry Fox decided to run after his right leg was amputated due to a malignant tumor. Terry’s example is an inspiration to many people who are fighting cancer or want to help those who are sick.

History

Terry was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 19, which was a big blow for him because he was fond of sports and wanted to become a physical education teacher. Because of the tumor, they had to amputate his leg above the knee and install a prosthesis. This did not break Terry’s spirit; on the contrary, it gave him the idea of taking a long run to raise awareness of the cancer problem and organize a fundraiser. Terry trained for a long time and started it in 1980. The action was called the Marathon of Hope.

The amputation did not stop Terry from running a huge distance, despite the fact that the prosthesis caused him constant pain. And yet he could not run the entire planned distance: the cancer had spread to his lungs. Unfortunately, after that, he lived only ten more months and died at the age of twenty-two. The marathon helped Terry raise $24 million, which was roughly the number of people in Canada.

Interesting facts

• Terry ran about 42 km a day.
• A mountain peak in British Columbia is named after Terry Fox.
• After Terry’s race, the Terry Fox Run project was born, bringing together many marathon runners around the world.

How to take part

You can participate in one of the many races organized on this day. Keep in mind you need to register in advance. Donate money to one of the charitable foundations, such as the Terry Fox Foundation.

When is Terry Fox Day in 2024?

Terry Fox Day is observed on the first Monday of August.

Observations