Fred Fox wants brother's mission to live on

SASKATOON — Fred Fox has stressed his brother Terry's battle with cancer and the perseverance he did to raise awareness 44 years ago is the legacy that will live on not only to Canadians but people around the world.

People will again commemorate the bravery of the now-Canadian hero in the 44th Annual Terry Fox Run, which will be held on Sunday, Sept. 15, in Saskatoon and across the country. Other communities and schools will have their events on the day or in the following weeks.

"He has that no-quit attitude that he had in wanting to make a difference in the lives of many diagnosed with cancer. That's why it continues until today, because of so many people who get out there every year," said Fred.

"Whether in Saskatchewan or other locations across the country, participating in Terry Fox runs, communities, and schools. It's amazing that Terry still had that impact. The run serves as a memorial to Terry and a call to action for continued support for cancer research."

Terry Fox tried to run across the country in 1980, dubbed the Marathon of Hope, to raise cancer awareness and funds for research. His right leg was amputated after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a cancer that usually starts near the knees.

Fred Fox said the annual run honours his brother's advocacy, which continues to inspire millions. Terry Fox's goal of running from Canada's East Coast to the West has become synonymous with perseverance, hope, and cancer research.

"The Terry Fox Run continues to be a powerful reminder of Terry's legacy. Our mandate is clear: to raise funds for cancer research, just as Terry intended. The commitment of volunteers and the participation of schools are crucial to keeping his mission alive," said Fred Fox.

"Cancer research has seen remarkable progress. Canada is home to some of the world's leading cancer researchers. Thanks to Terry's efforts and the communities' continued support, many people are living longer and healthier lives despite their cancer diagnoses."

The funds raised through the Terry Fox Runs support cancer research in Canada. Over the years, advances in cancer treatment and survival rates increased, which was Terry's vision when he did the Marathon of Hope.

“[Cancer research] is out mandate. That's Terry's mandate when he was running in 1980 across Canada. When he was diagnosed in 1977, he found that in Canada, not a lot of money was going towards cancer research, not through government or private donations. He wanted to raise awareness and money, and that's what we're doing today," said Fred Fox.

"And that's our mandate, to do nothing but raise money for cancer research, just like Terry wanted. So that's what we're doing. We do not only do the Terry Fox Run, but we also do other events throughout the year. Terry wanted to raise money for cancer research to give people hope that their cancer diagnosis would come out positively."

He added that what his brother had started in 1980 had impacted cancer research in Canada, and during his visits to various parts of the country, people were thankful for what Terry had done more than four decades ago.

"People are surviving their cancer diagnosis because of cancer research, and they're living longer being able to live with their cancer much longer. There are so many positive things when supporting those with cancer," said Fred.

To register to participate in your local Terry Fox Run, go to run.terryfox.ca, search for your community's name and click on the site where you can also donate and fundraise. Call the Terry Fox Foundation office at 1-888-836-9786 extension one or visit terryfox.org.