In 1977 Terry Fox discovered that his right leg had a malignant tumour, which had to be amputated. As he recovered from this operation and learnt how to run on an artificial leg, he began to train for a Marathon of Hope in order to raise money for cancer research and awareness.
In April of 1980, Fox would begin the run from Newfoundland through a total of six provinces averaging 42 km per day. Able to run for 143 days, 5,373 km Fox was unable to continue as his primary cancer had spread. Having to return to British Columbia for treatments, Fox would pass away in June of 1981.
His legacy endures and today Terry Fox Runs are held across the country every September. The first being held at more than 760 sites across the nation with over 300,000 participants and $3.5 million raised for cancer research and awareness.
In 1985 Kenosee Lake rallied together to join this great cause. Usually bringing in between 20 and 30 participants, they enjoy a 5 km walk around the village.
"We do pretty good for a little community," Jackie Doty, an organizer, explained.
This year the Kenosee Lake Terry Fox Run will be held on Sept. 15 at Club 19. Registration will begin at 10 a.m., with the walk starting at about 10:30 a.m.
There is no minimum donation needed to participate and it is simply a great way to spend a Sunday morning, simply going for a walk and helping people in need.