Terry Fox
Terry Fox: The Enduring Spirit of a Canadian Hero
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Terry Fox was born Terrance Stanley Fox on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. He is commonly known as Terry Fox.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: July 28, 1958
Passed away: June 28, 1981
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete, cancer survivor, and humanitarian. His athletic career and determination to raise awareness for cancer research made him an icon in Canada.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Winnipeg, Terry Fox developed a passion for sports at an early age. He suffered from osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in his right leg when he was 18 years old. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, the tumor returned, requiring the amputation of his leg below the knee.
Major Accomplishments
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Terry Fox's most notable achievement is his cross-country run across Canada on behalf of cancer research. Dubbed the "Marathon of Hope," Terry aimed to raise one dollar per kilometer for each Canadian who would donate $1. He began his journey in St. John's, Newfoundland, and had planned to finish in Victoria, British Columbia.
Terry Fox was forced to stop running after 143 days due to his health complications, but not before inspiring millions of Canadians with his determination and courage. His efforts raised over $24 million for cancer research.
Notable Works or Actions
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While Terry's run may have been cut short, it sparked a national movement that continues to inspire people today. He remains an iconic Canadian figure, and his legacy extends beyond the Marathon of Hope.
Terry Fox was a recipient of numerous awards and honors for his contributions to cancer research and awareness. Some notable recognitions include:
Order of Canada
Companion of the Order of Canada
National Cancer Institute's "Citizen of the Year" awardImpact and Legacy
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Terry Fox's impact on Canadian society extends far beyond his remarkable athletic achievement. He inspired a nation to come together for a common cause, demonstrating the power of compassion, perseverance, and determination.
His legacy lives on through:
The Terry Fox Run, an annual event that raises millions of dollars for cancer research
The Terry Fox Foundation, which continues to support cancer research and awareness initiatives
The countless individuals who have been inspired by his story to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in the world
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Terry Fox's quotes and messages continue to inspire people today. His unwavering dedication to cancer research and awareness has made him an enduring figure in Canadian history.
His most famous quote, "You don't have to be a genius or a athlete to do great things. You only need to care," encapsulates the spirit of his Marathon of Hope and continues to motivate people around the world to make a difference in their communities.
In conclusion, Terry Fox's remarkable life and legacy serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, individuals can achieve greatness through determination and compassion. His story will continue to inspire future generations to chase their dreams and strive for a better world.
Quotes by Terry Fox
Terry Fox's insights on:
I loved it. I enjoyed myself so much, and that was what other people couldn't realize. They thought I was going through a nightmare running all day long.
There might have been a thousand people who had a better athletic feat than what I did. So for me, just the fact that they gave Canadian Athlete of the Year - and also, I was voted third in the Male Athlete of the Year - the fact that some people did consider what I did an athletic feat, that really makes me feel good.
I've said to people before that I'm going to do my very best to make it, and I'm not going to give up. And that's true. But I might not make it. And if I don't make it, the Marathon of Hope better continue.
I don't feel that this is unfair. That's the thing about cancer. I'm not the only one; it happens all the time to people. I'm not special.
Maybe now, instead of being afraid and saying, 'Look how hard Terry tried, and he still got cancer,' instead people will say, 'Look at the effort he put in, and he died of cancer. We're really going to have to try hard in order to beat it - harder than we ever have before.'
If I ran to a doctor every time I got a little cyst or abrasion, I'd still be in Nova Scotia.
It was really beautiful. The mayors of Glovertown and Gambo introduced me, and then I talked to the crowd. In fifteen minutes, we raised more than $700 in a town with less than 3,000 people. It was a fantastic feeling and a day I will never forget because I hope it is a start of things to come.
One Roman Catholic School I will never forget. They sang a song to receive me. Part of the words were, 'Thank you, Lord, for giving us Terry.' It was beautiful; it really brought tears to my eyes.
One thing hurts me. I keep hearing 'Terry Fox.' I'm not doing the run to become rich or famous... To me, being famous is not the idea of the run. The only important part is that cancer can be beaten.