June 28th, 1981, will forever be one of the most saddest days in Canadian history.
Terry Fox lost his courageous battle with cancer.
After multiple bouts of chemotherapy, Fox’s quest to run across Canada starting in St.John's ended after 143 days and 5,373 kilometres. His journey may have stopped in Thunder Bay, but the overall goal did not.
Thirty-seven years after his death, the Winnipeg resident’s dream to raise money and awareness for cancer research still shines brightly just like the headlights from cars that followed along his path.
Often running the equivalent of a marathon per day, Fox did what he could while limping with only one foot striking down on the pavement. He was transported to the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, B.C. on June 18th, 1981. Ten days later, with his family members by his side, Fox passed away at the young age of 22.
To this day, Fox’s legacy has inspired the raising of over $800 million for cancer research, according to the Terry Fox Foundation.
Thank you, Terry, for all you sacrificed.
