Community 

‘Finish it’ theme of this year’s Terry Fox Run

Posted on: Staff Writer

By Rob Vogt


They came out once again to renew a fight that has become etched in the national consciousness – the fight to end cancer.
Approximately 40 people turned out for the 45th annual Terry Fox Run starting at the Claresholm Fire Hall on Sunday, Sept. 14.
It commemorates the efforts of Terry Fox who endeavoured to run across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.
He was stopped near Thunder Bay in 1980 when his cancer reappeared, which ultimately took his life in 1981.
Soon after, communities across Canada began hosting Terry Fox Runs, including Claresholm, which has held one ever since.
Brian Treadwell, a longtime media personality, was back again this year to emcee the event.
He noted this year’s theme is “Finish it.”
“Your participation today leaves us all humbled,” Treadwell said.
He encouraged everyone to look back and ahead.
Look back and see how over the past 44 years advances have been made in the fight against cancer.
“Our future,” Treadwell said. “That’s to finish what Terry started.”
That is to find a cure for cancer.
“That’s up to all of us to finish it,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Craig Zimmer then brought greetings from the Town of Claresholm.
He noted Terry Fox set out 45 years ago with his Marathon of Hope, but was unable to finish it.
However, communities across Canada started having runs soon after.
“We’re proud to be carrying that torch,” Zimmer said.
He noted Terry Fox never quit.
“Neither will we,” Zimmer said.
He stressed Terry Fox ran 143 days and a total of 5,373 kilometres.
Zimmer said what is more amazing is seeing the prosthetic leg Terry Fox used which was very primitive.
It was Fox’s dedication, will and power that got him through.
“The man was truly inspiring,” Zimmer said.
He closed by citing one of Fox’s quotes: “I want to set an example that will never be forgotten.”
Zimmer said everyone at the Terry Fox Run is continuing in Fox’s footsteps.
“It’s because of you that Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope continues to live on,” he said.