LEGACY OF HOPE  Runners in the 2012 Terry Fox Run set off from J.A. Laird Elementary.  File photo

LEGACY OF HOPE Runners in the 2012 Terry Fox Run set off from J.A. Laird Elementary. File photo

By Erin Knutson

Special to The Pioneer

On Sunday, September 14th, local running enthusiasts, cancer supporters, philanthropic-minded individuals and anyone interested in participating in the local Terry Fox Run are cordially invited to meet at the J.A. Laird Elementary School yard to register for the charitable event.

The Terry Fox Foundation is currently funding $20 million in cancer research annually in Canada; the foundation was created when worldwide sensation Terry Fox embarked on one of the greatest journeys ever recorded in Canadian history.

After being diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer), which resulted in the amputation of his right leg (six inches above the knee) in 1977, Terry made the decision to run across Canada in the hopes of raising money and awareness for cancer research. His inspiring journey was called Marathon of Hope.

Terry reached his goal on February 1st, 1981 and his vision of raising $1 for every Canadian citizen came to fruition. Terrys Marathon of Hope raised a total of $24.17 million for cancer research he died a few short months after the realization of his dream in June.

Out of that first run sprang a worldwide awareness of cancer and eventually the Terry Fox Research Institute, which is a unique grassroots institute geared towards cutting edge scientific research for improved cancer treatment and diagnosis for Canadians.

Over the past four decades, $650 million has been generated through Terrys brave efforts and dedicated in his name.

Registration begins at 9 a.m, followed by the runs start at 10 a.m. The event officially closes at 11 p.m.

Participants are encouraged to register in either the 10-kilometre, eight-kilometre, four-kilometre or three-kilometre distances. Bicycles, wheelchairs/strollers, rollerblades and dogs are welcome.

For more information, please visit www.terryfox.org.