Winnipeggers remembering Terry Fox on 40th anniversary of run

A local foundation says that the fight against cancer does not stop, even in a pandemic.

Each year the Terry Fox Run happens across Canada on September 20 in honour of the athlete who died before completing his cross-country journey. This year's "Try Like Terry" message is emphasizing that while participants will be on their own for the trip, there is a community of people with them.

Taking to social media, Manitoba's Terry Fox Run organizers are sharing 'on this day' style posts to encourage people, helping them remember the run's history spanning 40 years.

"Our community has grown significantly," Amy Brown, the co-chair of Terry Fox Run Winnipeg, says. "The comments, the shares, it has really inspired our committee and we are so grateful that we are able to do it."

The increase in engagement has been "amazing" for Brown to see.

Participants are encouraged to walk, skate, bike, or use any activity of their choice to participate. Brown says that the method matters less than the reason.

"Whether or not we are in person or doing this virtually, those funds make the same impact," she says. "We want people to know and feel encouraged that their gifts are going directly to cancer research." 

The organizer is excited to see people participating on Sunday.

Not wanting this year's event to be forgotten during the pandemic, Brown says it is important for participants to show how they are participating on social media.

To spread awareness, Brown says participants "getting out there and figuring out what is a way that you can let people know why you are doing what you are doing" is important.

Whether that means wearing a Terry Fox t-shirt, posting on social media, or sharing stories, Brown wants to see it and says participants can tag the organization in their posts.

Currently, at  $43,332.99, the organization has raised less than last year's funds of $91,497.90. To help raise funds, Brown says the Kinsmen Club of Winnipeg is making a generous donation, with a catch. 

"They are currently matching every gift of this year' Winnipeg run's fundraising, up to $40,000 in honour of the Marathon of Hope's 40th anniversary."

The organization says the $40,000 match required the rest of Winnipeg to raise the same amount online.