In honour of one our country’s most inspiring and remarkable individuals, the second Sunday of September is Terry Fox Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year, that date falls on September 16, and the Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, is encouraging all residents to come out and participate in local events.
Thirty-eight years ago Terry Fox started his legendary Marathon of Hope on an April morning by dipping his prosthetic leg in St. John’s harbour in an effort to raise awareness of cancer and collect donations to help in the fight against the disease.
At the time, he hoped to raise the seemingly insurmountable total of ‘perhaps’ $1 million. While he never reached his goal of running across Canada, his legacy lives on and the Marathon of Hope has become an international effort that has raised more than $700 million to date.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, numerous Terry Fox Runs are planned over the coming days including those at many schools throughout the province. The largest event is being held on Sunday, September 16, at Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s with registration taking place at 10:00 a.m. at King George V Soccer Field.
More details on Terry Fox, his Marathon of Hope and other scheduled events throughout Newfoundland and Labrador can be found at www.terryfox.org .
Quote
“After he was forced to abandon his run across
Canada, Terry was quoted as saying ‘It’s got to keep going without me.’ Well,
here we are 38 years later and his legacy is stronger than ever. I can think of
no better way to remember and honour Terry than to come out and participate in a
local event. I encourage all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to support this
great cause and take time to reflect on the remarkable achievements of this
amazing young man.”
Honourable Dwight Ball
Premier of Newfoundland and
Labrador
– 30 –
Learn More
Provincial Government Proclaims Terry Fox Day
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Media contact
Michelle Cannizzaro
Office of the
Premier
709-729-3960
michellecannizzaro@gov.nl.ca