Terry Fox Wikipedia,Biography,Family, Life, Career, Legacy, Marathon of Hope and Death
Terry Fox was a young Canadian who faced so many challenges during his lifetime. Born and raised in British Columbia, Fox fought like a Fox during his lifetime.
Terry lived an ordinary life, he was a sports lover who loved running. Despite his small stature, Terry would always be a favorite in sporting Activities.
A misfortune stared Terry in the face when he turned 18, and his life was never going to remain the same forever again, that notwithstanding, he showed courage and faced his fears, endearing him in the hearts of so many people all over the world.
Early Life and Family
Terry Fox was born on the 28th of July 1958, In the small town of Winnipeg, Manitoba, in Canada. His father has four children, Fox happens to be the second of them.
Terry grew up in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, his childhood was a very energetic one,his love for Sports knows no bounds, he picked a particular interest in running and basketball.
Although he was small by stature, smaller than the majority of his classmates, he was a really determined kid, and these gave him all the advantages his stature couldn’t give him in sports.
He had very supportive parents, his parents Betty and Rolly Fox made sure they provided everything he needed, they were very supportive and always encouraged him to keep pushing his dreams as a sports person.
The Diagnosis and Struggles with Cancer
Growing up, Terry had so many hopes of competing in different sports, particularly basketball and running, however at the age of 18, something unbelievable happened, Terry’s life took a very challenging turn.
In the year 1977, Fox was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, which happens to be a type of bone cancer. In order to prevent his right leg from spreading the cancer, his right leg was amputated.
It was an absolute devastating blow to the young man who from birth has been very active and full of life. Many expected him to give up on living, but Terry Fox has other Ideas, instead of giving up, he found strength in his condition.
While in the hospital, Terry was inspired by children who were also suffering from cancer, these children made him understand that he could actually make a difference by raising more awareness for cancer research.
The Idea of the Marathon of Hope
While on rehab from his surgery, Terry has an idea on how to help raise cancer awareness in Canada, he has a goal, which is to run across Canada so as to raise money and awareness that would help to improve cancer research.
He code named his mission the “Marathon of Hope.” What helped him to birth this idea was when he learnt of the lack of funding for cancer research, Terry became really determined to do something positive about the situation that will not only bring attention to cancer, but also help inspire those that might be passing through the same pains as him.
Even with just a leg, Terry so much believed in his ability to run across the country if he is dedicated to the cause. He has the goal of raising at least a dollar for every Canadian citizen, which is about 24 million dollars as Canada’s population was 24 million then.
Training for the Marathon
To prepare for his historical marathon, He began to train so as to maintain fitness, the training was intense and his family was there to give him moral support.
His body had to adapt to the obvious challenge of running with a prosthetic leg, being physically challenged meant Terry faced so many challenges that would ordinarily stop a lot of people from continuing with the marathon.
However he was determined to carry on no matter what happens, he was relentless, he ran almost everyday, he practically pushed through pains and exhaustion, his determination to complete the marathon grew each day.
He reached out to others, shared his Story and more and more people became interested and also started following up the situation, he automatically became a huge symbol of support and fight against cancer.
The Marathon Begins
On April 12,1980, a historical marathon was to be born, Terry Fox began his journey of fight against cancer in St. John’s, Newfoundland which is at the easternmost part of Canada.
He planned on running all the way to Vancouver, British Columbia which is on the West Coast. Terry defied all odds and started his marathon with his prosthetic leg, he covered an average of about 42 kilometers which is around 26 miles a day.
He would run for several hours every blessed day, most times he faced very difficult weather situations that threatened to demotivate him, however he remained resolute, nothing could stand in his way with destiny, this was his calling, irrespective of how immense his physical challenges were, giving up wasn’t an option for him.
His family and a small team of friends were there for him, news about his marathon soon became a national and international sensation, many people lined up the streets of Canada to cheer him up through their town, he became hope to a nation hopelessly fighting cancer, a killer disease.
The Fight Against Cancer and His Early End
As Terry Fox continued running over Canada, the toll on his body began to increase, obviously the Spirit was willing, but the body sadly is becoming weaker by the day.
And in September 1980, after he had completed 143 days and 5,373 kilometers of running which is about 3,339 miles, Terry was forced to discontinue the Marathon.
He suddenly began to feel pain in his chest and regions around, the doctors had to carry out a test, sadly it was discovered that the cancer has spread to the lungs, although there’s obvious physical decline, Terry wasn’t fazed, he still remained focused on his dreams, before he stopped, he has already raised more than the targeted $24million for cancer research, his goals has been achieved.
Terry Fox Death
He was determined to keep fighting, but his physical condition has seriously gotten terrible, Terry Fox sadly passed away on June 28, 1981 at the age of 23, he may have died, but his legacy is eternal.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
After his passing away, the money he raised helped advance cancer research in Canada, The Terry Fox Foundation was set up in his honour to help advance research for cancer.
Today the foundation has raised over $850 Million to help combat cancer, the foundation also organizes the Terry Fox Foundation marathon in over 60 countries, throughout this run, millions of people all over the world take part in order to commemorate the beautiful legacy of Terry Fox.
FAQS
Who was Terry Fox?
Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete, cancer activist, and national hero. He is best known for the Marathon of Hope, a cross-Canada run to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, despite having lost his right leg to cancer.
What was Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope?
In 1980, Terry Fox embarked on the Marathon of Hope, running 5,373 kilometers across Canada on one leg and a prosthetic. His goal was to raise $1 for every Canadian to support cancer research, inspiring millions worldwide.
How did Terry Fox lose his leg?
Terry Fox was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, at 18. His right leg was amputated above the knee in 1977, but he continued to pursue his passion for sports and activism.
What is Terry Fox’s legacy?
Terry Fox’s legacy includes the annual Terry Fox Run, held in over 60 countries, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research. He remains a symbol of courage, determination, and hope worldwide.
When did Terry Fox die?
Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, at the age of 22. Although his run ended prematurely due to cancer spreading to his lungs, his efforts continue to inspire global cancer research and awareness initiatives.
