This year’s theme from the Terry Fox Foundation is ‘no matter what’, which local organizer Don Chapman explained were “just three words that represent Terry Fox so well.”
“He would not give up, and he would not give up, and he would not give up – it was just phenomenal, and that's why we run. That's why we do this crazy, crazy event."
Chapman said the words repeatedly to the four north Simcoe councils of Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay Township and Tiny Township in four similar presentations over the past few months, promoting this weekend’s Terry Fox Day in the Heart of Georgian Bay.
At age 18, Terry Fox was diagnosed with bone cancer in 1977 resulting in the amputation of his right leg. He became a national hero when he began the Marathon of Hope in 1980, running 42 kilometres per day across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
The fundraiser lasted until September 1980 when cancer reappeared in his lungs; Fox passed away in June 1981 at age 22, having completed 5,373 kilometres over the 143-day span.
Chapman’s 20-year involvement with the Terry Fox Foundation had provided the opportunity to watch as annual participation and contributions in north Simcoe increased as well as across the country. The organization raised more than $875 million over the past 40 years, and was ranked the top charity by Innovation Canada for two consecutive years against its peers.
“The world's going to be a better place,” Chapman told Midland council recently. “It is happening, just have faith it is happening… and have more than faith – have action.
In 2023, local efforts raised over $102,000 in revenue through nearly 540 participants.
"We've had three years in a row over $100,000. Headquarters couldn't be happier with us. We've given over $2.6 million (since 1980).
“Out of 200 race sites in Ontario, to be 11th is an honour we should be extremely proud of, and we should keep going.”
Chapman explained the tech advances to Penetanguishene council that were being made in cancer research, resulting in developed diagnostic tools and treatments which in turn improved survival rates and survivor longevity.
“It’s close to the edge and extremely replicable. Once you crack the code, you can deploy it very broadly, very quickly,” said Chapman. “I think that gives me hope.
“The other notion here is called precision medicine,” Chapman added. “It generally says they’re going to attack things at a gene level, like we’re going to a micro-micro-micro level here. No big shotgun kind of approaches; this is rifle shooting.”
Of note, Chapman praised the efforts of volunteers who made the effort possible. As all money raised through pledges, contributions and various sales went directly to the Terry Fox Foundation, only overhead costs were collected; for every dollar donated, 74 cents go to the cause.
Many on the local councils had things to say.
Tiny Township Mayor Dave Evans shared that he had seen Fox run in August 1980 in northern Ontario, calling it a privilege and an honour.
“It’s a memory that will always be in my mind. The determination on his face in the middle of nowhere, running on something that… you don’t know how anybody would have made it 100 yards," he recalled.
"And going up and down hills on the side of Lake Superior, is something that – he was a better man than I ever will be. And I think it’s a worthy honour and recognition that we try and emulate the example that he has set.”
Tay Township Mayor Ted Walker reiterated praise to Chapman and the volunteer committee. “How good you are is just by the numbers; it’s amazing for an area this size to be able to raise that much money.”
Walker added, “We were talking to a surgeon, and she was telling us that the advances in surgery have been unbelievable in the last 10 years with what they can do now with, much less invasive, much less time in the hospital, quicker recovery time. So, it’s coming.”
Penetanguishene Mayor Doug Rawson also spoke highly of the volunteer effort.
“What makes our community so special is the volunteers. I think you deserve a huge shout-out and kudos as well for your countless hours, passion, and drive that you've given towards the Foundation.
“You come every year with the same passion and drive, and thank you so much,” Rawson added. “You’re right… you have so much to be proud of; 11 out of the 200 sites across Ontario, that’s no small feat.”
Perkinsfield Park in Tiny Township will be the location for the annual run, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. and a start for the run at 10 a.m.
New for 2024 is a change to the route from previous years. To accommodate the safety of members and residents, the route will begin in Perkinsfield Park leading to Dananne Dr. and Saint Patrick's Way to arrive at Balm Beach Rd. E. From there, participants will travel east with the 2-kilometre mark at Bernie LeClair Parkette and the 5-kilometre mark before the first curve of Baseline Rd.
Eager participants for the 10-kilometre trek will continue on Baseline Rd. N. to Old School House Rd. and onto Wilson Rd. before making the return journey back.
Free local food, live entertainment, and activities for children and families will be available throughout the day, set to run rain or shine.
An online auction was also established to run until this Sunday at 7 p.m., having raised over $11,000 in 2023.
At one council presentation, Chapman concluded his remarks by urging north Simcoe residents to become a part of the day’s events.
“I would say do something simple, but: do something. Get involved, and contribute to this. It will make a difference… to how you feel as well. Saving lives is a great feeling.”
Registration, donations, and further information are available on the Terry Fox Run in the Heart of Georgian Bay website.
