Walkers, joggers and bikers circled Westlock’s Rotary Trail last Sunday to pay tribute to the memory of Terry Fox and raise money towards cancer research.
Nearly 25 participants came out for the event, the 36th anniversary of cancer fundraiser Terry Fox’s original cross-Canada run, which ended, tragically when the 22-year-old succumbed to cancer in 1981.
Though last year’s fundraiser brought in around $1,600, town community services and marketing supervisor Travis Darling said he was hopeful this year’s run would go even further.
“As we get into a more digital age, the Terry Fox Foundation has made it easier than ever to donate online and through social media,” Darling said.
Although raising money for cancer research is the event’s primary goal, Darling added that it was also nice to see residents come together to raise awareness.
“Not only is there the cancer awareness aspect. It’s all about community awareness, getting out and supporting a good cause, coming together as a community,” Darling said.
Pibroch Colony teacher Marleen Etherington said that although she frequently jogs similar distances, the event’s charitable nature made her efforts especially satisfying.
“[Terry Fox] was an incredible person, and incredible man that did incredible things,” she said, adding that the day’s stiff wind lent the task added difficulty.
“Running in the rain is fine, but the wind can be hard,” she said.
Runners Katelyn Provencal and Madison McVeety led the pack for most of the run, and agreed with Etherington that the best part of the event was being able to raise money for charity while exercising.
“It’s for a good cause,” McVeety shouted from the trail.
Students at St. Mary School got to do their own Terry Fox run Sept. 16, walking down a section of the Rotary Trail.
Teacher and event organizer Darcy Romanuik said that Fox’s story was especially inspiring for students, though many weren’t born when he made his original run.
“It’s a story about perseverance,” Romanuik said.
“A lot of the times, I see kids asking, ‘Why me? Why me?’ Bobby Orr used to say that if you think you’re having a bad day, go to the Boston children’s hospital and see a child with cancer or leukemia, then ask yourself if you’re having a bad day.
“Fox lost his leg to cancer, and he didn’t just sit in a corner and cry. He wanted to go across Canada to raise awareness and money for cancer.
“How can you not help but admire someone with that goal?”
Terry Fox runs will continue around Westlock County throughout the week with runs scheduled for Westlock Elementary School and R.F. Staples Sept. 21, Pembina North Community School Sept. 27, and Eleanor Hall School Sept. 28.
