Terry Fox - ESPN

Summary

Terry Fox, a young Canadian diagnosed with bone cancer, embarked on the Marathon of Hope in 1980, running across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Despite losing his leg to cancer, Terry ran a marathon every day on an artificial leg, inspiring millions with his unwavering determination. As his journey progressed, more Canadians rallied behind him, contributing to his goal of raising $1 for every Canadian. Although cancer returned and Terry passed away at 22, his legacy endures, with his efforts raising millions for cancer research and inspiring generations with his courage and selflessness.

Takeaways

• 😀 Terry Fox, a Canadian hero, began his Marathon of Hope 25 years ago in St. John's, Newfoundland, aiming to raise $1 million for cancer research.
• 😀 Terry Fox, diagnosed with bone cancer at age 18, underwent an amputation and chemotherapy, ultimately using an artificial leg to run across Canada.
• 😀 Despite the challenge of running a marathon every day on an artificial leg, Terry remained determined to complete his journey for cancer awareness.
• 😀 Initially, Terry's efforts were met with little attention and donations, but as he made his way into Ontario, his story began to resonate with the public.
• 😀 Terry's honesty, innocence, and determination won the hearts of Canadians, and his fundraising goal expanded to $24 million—$1 for every Canadian citizen.
• 😀 Terry's inspiration came from children battling cancer, and he made time to meet with them, including swimming with 10-year-old cancer survivor Greg Scott.
• 😀 After running 3,339 miles, Terry was diagnosed with cancer in his lungs and had to stop his journey in Thunder Bay, but his determination remained unwavering.
• 😀 Even as Terry faced death, his primary concern was ensuring that his mission to raise awareness and funds for cancer research continued.
• 😀 Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope ultimately raised over $20 million, surpassing his original goal, and his legacy continued to inspire people even after his death.
• 😀 Terry Fox died at 22, but his impact on Canada and the world endures through the Terry Fox Foundation, commemorating his efforts and inspiring future generations.

Q & A

What was the goal of Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope?

Terry Fox's goal was to run across Canada, raising money for cancer research. Specifically, he aimed to raise $1 for every Canadian citizen, which would total $24 million.

How did Terry Fox's cancer diagnosis impact his life?

Terry was diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of 18, which led to the amputation of his right leg. Despite this, he continued to pursue his goal of raising funds for cancer research, using his experience to inspire others.

Why did Terry Fox choose to run across Canada, from east to west?

Terry chose to run across Canada from east to west to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. He believed it was important for people across the country to be involved, not just in his home province of British Columbia.

How did the public initially respond to Terry Fox's journey?

Initially, few people knew about Terry’s mission, and donations were sparse. However, as he continued his run and received media coverage, especially in Ontario, the crowds grew larger, and more donations came in.

What was the significance of the meeting between Terry Fox and Greg Scott?

Terry’s meeting with Greg Scott, a young cancer patient, was significant because it reminded Terry of the reason he was running. Terry took a rare afternoon off from his marathon to swim with Greg, providing him with emotional support and inspiration.

How did Terry Fox respond when he was diagnosed with cancer in his lungs?

When Terry was diagnosed with cancer in his lungs, he remained determined to continue his mission. Despite the devastating news, he expressed his hope that his efforts had raised awareness and funds for cancer research.

What were the results of Terry Fox’s fundraising efforts?

Terry raised over $24 million for cancer research, surpassing his initial goal of $1 per Canadian. His fundraising efforts laid the foundation for the Terry Fox Foundation, which continues to support cancer research worldwide.

How did Terry Fox feel about not being able to finish his Marathon of Hope?

Terry was deeply disappointed that he could not finish his run, but he expressed his belief that his mission had been successful in raising awareness and money for cancer research. He had no regrets about his journey, as he felt he had done what he set out to do.

What was the national impact of Terry Fox’s story in Canada?

Terry Fox’s story had a profound impact on Canada, uniting the country in support of cancer research. He became a national hero and his legacy continues to inspire Canadians through the Terry Fox Foundation and the annual Terry Fox Run.

How is Terry Fox’s legacy honored today?

Terry Fox’s legacy is honored through the Terry Fox Foundation, which continues to fund cancer research. Statues and memorials have been erected in his honor, and the Terry Fox Run is held annually across Canada and internationally.