Organizers are getting ready to host one of the most quintessentially Canadian fundraisers.
On September 16, the 27th Terry Fox Run will take place in Drumheller and will help raise money to eventually stamp out cancer. Volunteers are needed both to run in and help run the event.
“Anyone who wants to participate is welcome to come out,” said run organizer Sharel Shoff, who has been organizing the Terry Fox Run in Drumheller for the past several years.
Volunteers are needed to help with registration and set up signs to mark the run.
Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the run begins at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 16, from Midland Hall. The Drumheller Elks will be helping out with lunch and drinks after the run.
The run was inspired by the actions of Terry Fox, a true Canadian hero.
When Fox was 18 he was diagnosed with malignant osteogenic sarcoma in his right leg. Doctors amputated his leg 15 centimetres above his right knee. During his follow-up treatments, Fox saw the devastating effects of cancer on those who were afflicted with it.
Shocked to learn how little funding or attention cancer research received in 1977, Fox decided to run the Marathon of Hope. On April 12, 1980, he dipped his artificial leg into the harbour in St. John’s and set out.
After 143 days, Fox was forced to stop when cancer tumors had reappeared in his lungs. Fox, intended to run again after he recovered, but he passed away on June 28, 1981.
His actions inspired the nation and Terry Fox runs are held all over Canada.
“He was a great inspiration to a lot of people by keeping going no matter what. That can be applied to a lot of different things in life,” said Shoff.
This will be the 27th run in Drumheller. Over the years, Drumheller has raised $140,444.32. The large majority of that money has gone directly to cancer research.
“There are a whole bunch of runs where administration takes a large part of what’s raised, but the Terry Fox does not. About 84 cents of every dollar donated goes to cancer research. That’s why I’m involved,” said Shoff.
To get involved in the run visit www.terryfox.org to sign up to run or donate. To help out with the Drumheller run, contact Shoff at 403-820-1644.
“It’s a very easy way to help,” said Shoff. “It’s just a couple hours out of your day and it makes a difference to a lot of people.”
Cindy Gerodo’s Grade 2 class prepares to participate in the 2011 Terry Fox Run. This year, the event will take place on September 16, with registration at 9 a.m. and the run at 10 a.m. at the Midland Community Hall. The money raised by the run will go towards cancer research and keeping the dream of a Canadian hero alive.