Notes

Who is Terry fox

Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete and a cancer research activist who etched his name into Canada’s folklore by his superhuman efforts. His tenacity and will power were evident since childhood itself. At the age of only eighteen, Fox, a good athlete, was diagnosed with cancer and as a result his right leg had to be amputated. Instead of getting bogged down, he became mentally stronger and retained his positivity even with an artificial leg. He experienced first-hand the pains and struggles of cancer patients, and had ever since longed to help them any way he could. Soon, Fox formulated an ambitious plan of epic proportions wherein he wanted to traverse the entire length of Canada on foot to accomplish the dual purpose of raising funds for cancer research, and inspiring people with disabilities. Running over 43 kilometres each day, he travelled through Canada, spreading his message everywhere. In a short time, he acquired celebrity status and succeeded in securing sizeable donations. At the height of his popularity, his recurring cancer put an abrupt end to his marathon, subsequently leading to his untimely death. However, Fox had accomplished far more than what he had hoped for, not only collecting enough funds, but also making a statement that epitomized the strength of human spirit.

Achievements :

In 1980, he was bestowed with the honour of ‘Companion of the Order of Canada’ and became the youngest person to receive this honour.

He won the ‘Lou Marsh Award’ in 1980 as Canada’s top sportsman for that year.

He was chosen ‘Canada’s Newsmaker of the Year’ for 1980, and again for the next year.