Terry Fox: A Legacy of Hope and Resilience - The Terry Fox Foundation Timeline

Terry Fox, a Canadian athlete and cancer survivor, embarked on a journey that would change the face of cancer research and awareness forever. The Terry Fox Foundation, established in his honor, continues to inspire and motivate people around the world to join the fight against cancer. In this article, we will delve into Terry's timeline, highlighting the key events that led to the creation of the foundation and its remarkable achievements.

Early Life and Diagnosis

Terry Fox was born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. At the age of 18, Terry was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. His right leg was amputated above the knee, and he underwent chemotherapy. This life-altering experience sparked a determination in Terry to make a difference in the lives of others affected by cancer.

The Marathon of Hope

In 1980, Terry began his epic journey, the Marathon of Hope, with the goal of crossing Canada from coast to coast to raise money for cancer research. He started his run on April 12, 1980, in St. John's, Newfoundland, with a prosthetic leg. Terry's determination and resilience inspired a nation, and he quickly became a Canadian hero. Although his journey was cut short on September 1, 1980, after 143 days and 3,339 miles, due to the cancer spreading to his lungs, his legacy lived on.

The Terry Fox Foundation

After Terry's passing on June 28, 1981, his family and friends established the Terry Fox Foundation to continue his mission. The foundation's primary goal is to raise funds for cancer research and to support cancer patients and their families. The foundation has become one of the largest non-profit organizations in Canada, with a presence in over 20 countries worldwide.

Key Milestones and Achievements

1981: The first Terry Fox Run is held, with over 300,000 participants across Canada, raising $3.5 million for cancer research. 1985: The Terry Fox Foundation establishes its first research grant program, funding innovative cancer research projects across Canada. 1994: The foundation launches its international program, supporting cancer research and awareness initiatives globally. 2010: The Terry Fox Foundation reaches a milestone of $500 million raised for cancer research since its inception.

Continuing the Legacy

Today, the Terry Fox Foundation continues to inspire and motivate people to join the fight against cancer. The annual Terry Fox Run, held on the second Sunday after Labor Day, has become a beloved tradition, with participants from around the world coming together to honor Terry's memory and support cancer research. The foundation's research grant program has funded numerous groundbreaking projects, leading to significant advancements in cancer treatment and care. In conclusion, Terry Fox's timeline is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and hope. The Terry Fox Foundation, established in his honor, has become a beacon of inspiration, supporting cancer research and awareness initiatives worldwide. As we continue to strive for a cancer-free world, we remember Terry's words: "I just wish people would realize that anything's possible if you try; dreams are made possible if you try." Join the movement and support the Terry Fox Foundation in its mission to create a world where cancer is a thing of the past.

Donate now to the Terry Fox Foundation and help fund life-saving cancer research. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for all those affected by cancer.

Visit the Terry Fox Foundation website to learn more about Terry's story, the foundation's mission, and how you can get involved in the fight against cancer.