News Article

• The Impact of the Marathon of Hope: In 1980, Terry Fox embarked on a cross-country run, the Marathon of Hope, with the goal of raising $24 million for cancer research, despite having lost his leg to cancer. His journey from St. John's, Newfoundland, to Victoria, British Columbia, inspired a national movement and remains a symbol of courage and determination in running and beyond.


• $850 Million Raised for Cancer Research: Terry Fox's legacy endures through the annual Terry Fox Run, the world's largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research, which has raised over $850 million. His example continues to unite communities globally, emphasizing the transformative power of running for social good.


• Terry Ran One Marathon A Day for 143 Days: Terry Fox's dedication to his cause was profound, pushing himself to run the equivalent of a marathon daily on one leg despite physical challenges and deteriorating health caused by osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer).

June 2024 marks the 44th Anniversary of Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope. A little over 44 years ago, Terry dipped his prosthetic leg into the Atlantic Ocean at St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. He started the Marathon of Hope, a run from the east coast of Canada to the west coast, to raise money and awareness for cancer research. And even though he didn't get to complete this run, others have continued his efforts through the Terry Fox Foundation and annual Terry Fox Run. Today, he remains an enduring symbol of courage and determination in the world of running. His legacy continues to inspire millions globally, impacting both runners and non-runners alike.

Who Was Terry Fox?

Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist who was born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of cancer that led to the amputation of his right leg. Despite this setback, with the aid of a prosthetic limb, he was fixated on the mission of making a difference in the lives of other cancer patients.

In 1980, Fox took the first steps of his Marathon of Hope. It would be a run across Canada. It would start in St. John's, Newfoundland and end in Victoria, British Columbia. His goal was to raise $24 million dollars and awareness for cancer research. Terry's Marathon of Hope would eventually inspire a national movement rooted in Canada.

Get to know Terry Fox and the story behind his Marathon of Hope by watching this 12-minute documentary from the Terry Fox Foundation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BzyHYZgMz8

Why is Fox an Important Figure in Running?

Terry Fox remains a pivotal figure in running today because he set an example of how the sport can be a powerful tool for social impact. His cross-country run, despite being cut short by cancer, raised $1.7 million, inspiring widespread donations and ongoing support for cancer research. Fox's heroic effort in 1980 is why he's an enduring symbol of hope in the running community and beyond.

Training for the Marathon of Hope

Terry Fox trained for 18 months before starting the Marathon of Hope, running over 3,107 miles. He transitioned from basketball to marathon training after his leg was amputated due to cancer. Despite this, he adopted a rigorous training routine, learning to run with a prosthetic leg to achieve his goal of crossing Canada. His basketball background gave him the discipline and endurance needed for his new challenge, laying the foundation for his journey.

Details about the Marathon of Hope

Over 143 days, Fox covered 5,373 kilometers (3,339 miles), equivalent to a daily marathon. His journey faced varied weather, from cold to heat, testing his endurance. Despite obstacles like cysts and tendonitis, Fox persisted, aided by his Adidas shoes. Sadly, cancer spreading to his lungs forced him to end his marathon just outside Thunder Bay, Ontario, after 143 days, inspiring millions with his spirit and dedication to cancer research fundraising.

Terry's Impact on Runners and Non-Runners

Terry Fox's life offers a powerful message to runners of all backgrounds: the importance of perseverance. His journey teaches us that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, each step forward matters. Fox's legacy calls on us to harness the transformative power of running to make a positive impact in our communities and the world. His quote, "I just wish people would realize that anything's possible if you try, dreams are made if people try," continues to resonate, urging individuals to pursue their dreams and strive for a better future, no matter the obstacles.

His Marathon of Hope continues to inspire numerous charity runs and events. The annual Terry Fox Run, the world's largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research, unites communities globally in a shared mission to advance cancer treatment and support patients and their families.

How Is He Remembered Today?

If you Google his name, you'll find countless memorials, statues, and events honoring Terry. You'll even find his name on schools, roads, and parks across Canada The Terry Fox Run, held annually since 1981, sees millions of people running to continue his mission. Approximately $850 million has been raised in his name, funding groundbreaking research and offering hope to those affected by cancer. Terry Fox's impact on the sport of running and society at large is a testament to the enduring power of one individual's determination to make a difference. To learn more about Terry, please click here to visit the Terry Foundation website.

Quick Links

Featured Articles
Recent News
Press Releases
Newsletters
Historical Insights
First Marathons