In the late 1970s, a young Canadian named Terry Fox captured the hearts of millions with an extraordinary display of courage, determination, and hope. Diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) at the age of 18, Terry’s right leg was amputated above the knee. Despite this life-altering event, Terry’s indomitable spirit led him to conceive the “Marathon of Hope,” a cross-Canada run to raise money and awareness for cancer research.
The image on the left shows Terry Fox during this historic journey in 1980. Wearing a simple t-shirt with the words “Marathon of Hope,” and shorts, Terry is seen running with his unique hop-skip stride that accommodated his prosthetic leg. The grueling marathon saw Terry running an average of 26 miles a day, enduring extreme weather conditions, physical pain, and sheer exhaustion. His determination was fueled by the desire to help others suffering from cancer and to inspire hope for a cure.
Despite his relentless effort, Terry was forced to halt his run on September 1, 1980, near Thunder Bay, Ontario, after running 3,339 miles over 143 days. His cancer had spread to his lungs, and he could no longer continue. Terry’s Marathon of Hope may have ended prematurely, but his legacy was far from over.
The image on the right depicts a bronze statue of Terry Fox, located in front of the Confederation Building in St. John’s, Newfoundland, where his journey began. The statue stands as a testament to Terry’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the world. With his determined expression and dynamic pose, the statue immortalizes Terry’s spirit and his mission.
Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, at the age of 22. However, his dream lives on through the annual Terry Fox Run, held in numerous countries and raising millions of dollars for cancer research. The run, which continues to inspire people of all ages, is a celebration of Terry’s belief that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.
The juxtaposition of these two images—Terry Fox running in the Marathon of Hope and his commemorative statue—serves as a powerful reminder of his legacy. Terry Fox remains a symbol of hope, courage, and the unwavering human spirit, proving that even in the face of immense adversity, one individual can make a monumental difference.