by Keith Johnson
Summerland Terry Fox Run Organizer
Special to the Review
Summerlanders came out strong on Sunday to run or walk for family and friends, and to honour the special Canadian who started this in 1980, Terry Fox.
Funds raised will support the Terry Fox Foundation in the pursuit to beat cancer.
The weather was beautiful, and the atmosphere was very special as people arrived. People wrote names and wishes on the “I’m running for …” poster.
Participants were energized by common reasons for being there, and came away with the satisfaction that they had contributed to this important cause.
Terry’s Team members, who are all cancer survivors, were on hand wearing their special red shirts.
They welcomed participants while adding to the reality of why we were there and the success of past cancer research.
Summerland’s four members have 68 years of combined cancer survivorship.
New members have joined this team as people become aware of it.
For more information about Terry’s Team, see www.terryfox.org. or call 1-888-836-9786.
Three records were set for Summerland’s Terry Fox Runs.
Last year’s record participation of 162 people was beat by 50 with 212 people running, walking, and even unicycling.
A total of $7,668 was raised, again a new record. Plus 44 volunteers helped out to make the event the success it was. Way to go Summerland!
People enjoyed coffee and hot chocolate while registering and visiting with others.
The Summerland Fire Department brought a truck over for the kids to enjoy, as well as starting the events with their siren.
Many families took part with children and dogs.
After completing their run or walk, participants were treated to fruit and baking along with a variety of drinks.
Joanne Malar, Delano Ducheck and the Orca Swim Club hosted the 1k walk around downtown.
New this year was a 3k route, which provided an enjoyable run or walk for many.
The familiar 5k route was also popular and was well marked with flour by Run Marshall Jud Thompson.
Many businesses and organizations supported the event by providing food, fruit, water, promotion, and services: Astral Radio, Avee Graphics, Summerland IGA, Nester’s Food Market, St. John Ambulance, Summerland Credit Union, Summerland Fire Department, Summerland Merchant’s Committee, Summerland Public Works Department, Summerland Recreation Department, The Apple Barn and Tim Horton’s.
Summerland Secondary Leadership students came out to help with setup, route marshalling, traffic control, and tear down.
A total of 16 students were on hand with their efforts directed by Lois Dickinson, Run Site Manager and Joe Bedard, Volunteer Coordinator.
Participants were offered a free swim or soak in the hot tub at the Aquatic Centre. A few T-shirts are left.
If anyone would like to purchase one they can call me at 250 494-1465. The National School Run day is set for Thursday, Sept. 27, while some schools will hold their run on a different date.
Next year’s Terry Fox Run is Sunday, Sept. 15, 2013.
“I am not a dreamer, and I am not saying that this will initiate any kind of definitive answer or cure to cancer. But I believe in miracles. I have to. ”Terry Fox, October, 1979