Thousands mark Terry Fox milestone

2010 marks the 30th anniversary of Terry Fox's cross country marathon, "Marathon of Hope" which was tragically cut short. Terry Fox foundation was set up after Terry Fox's death in memory of him and his passion to fight against the cancer. Terry Fox foundation had become one of the largest cancer research foundations in the world today, raising over 500 million dollars over the years.

Every year, millions of people participate in annual Terry Fox run in order to honour Terry and to raise money for cancer researches and this year was no exception. On Sunday 19th, there were 10,000 walkers and runners including Terry's own brother, Fred Fox, crossing the Confederation Bridge from Bayfield, N.B. participating in the annual Terry Fox run. One of the participant said "During the annual run at the Confederation Bridge, everyone was cheering everyone on and it was a very emotional moment as the group from the P.E.I. side met the group that started on the N.B. side." Fred Fox, Terry's brother said that he was amazed by the number of participants wearing Terry's Team T-shirts, signifying that they are cancer survivors. Fred also said that these cancer survivors are testaments to show that cancer researches are working, since people are surviving through cancer and living longer. Annual Terry Fox run will continue to take place across the Canada even after today with millions of participants. This year's annual Terry Fox run is also expected to raise millions of dollars which will be used for further cancer researches. Terry's marathon, which covered 5373 km, still stands as an important feat that has inspired millions around the world.

In my opinion, Terry Fox is a true Canadian hero, inspiration to millions. Moreover, annual Terry Fox run should continue on even after the day we find the definite cure for the cancer in order to continue to recognize Terry's contribution. I don't think that I will be able to do what Terry did if I was facing the situation he had faced. Running more than 20 km each day is challenging enough for a normal person. But, Terry was able to run over 40 km each day with only one real leg and an artificial metal leg in order to raise money to fight against cancer. I have heard that Terry's original goal was to run across the whole Canada which tragically was forced to stop after 143 days at Thunder Bay, ON because of the cancer spreading through Terry's body once again. I believe that although Terry couldn't finish his journey, Canada was able to recognize Terry's contribution, passion and his true goodness from his heart.

Furthermore, I believe that Terry's action has not only influenced Canada but around the world as well. I am not a Canadian, however through my experiences and life in Canada, I was able to recognize and understand Terry's passion and contribution towards cure for cancer. I also agree that cancer research is working as more people are starting to overcome the cancer and live longer and without Terry's contribution this would not have been possible. Terry Fox, the true Canadian hero and inspiration to millions should always be remembered in our hearts and we should continue to fight against the cancer to help those who suffer from it and to accomplish what Terry had started for us. I would personally like to suggest everyone to try participating in annual Terry Fox run. This run will benefit yourself as it will help you to get exercise, benefit those who suffer through cancer as you will be raising money towards the cancer research and lastly benefit everyone as it will help everyone recognize and understand Terry's passion and heart.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/863391--thousands-mark-terry-fox-milestone