Marathon of Hope keeps Terry’s dream alive

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By Kira Paterson

The Neepawa Banner

On Sunday, Sept. 20 communities across Canada will once again take part in the annual Terry Fox Run. This year marks 35 years since Terry ran his Marathon of Hope.

He ran over 5,000 kilometers in 143 days in an effort to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

In Neepawa the run will take place at 2:00 p.m. starting at the Neepawa Area Collegiate track. There is no set fee for registration and you can donate as much as you would like. The five kilometre route is wheelchair, bicycle and rollerblade friendly. Last year, about 85 people took part here in town and raised about $7,600.  

Other communities in the area that will hold a run include Gladstone, at the Norma Moore Memorial District Arena at 9:00 a.m. and Minnedosa, at the Community Conference Centre at 10:00 a.m. There are at least 36 different communities in Manitoba that will be participating in the run this year.

The National School Run Day will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 30. Every year Hazel M. Kellington School takes part in the run. The school makes sure that Terry Fox’s legacy will not die with the younger generations by teaching the students about his journey and reminding them of its importance each year.

As of last year, there has been a total amount of over $650 million raised for cancer research in Terry’s name. Almost 25 countries take part in the runs or other events with the Terry Fox Foundation. Take some time this year to walk, run or roll to keep Terry’s dream alive. For more information about Terry Fox or how to register for the run you can visit the Terry Fox Foundation website.