Dear Editor:
Summerland’s Terry Fox Run was a great success on Sunday, Sept. 18. Despite some windy weather early in the morning, we set a new record for Summerland participation as 186 people ran or walked (162), or helped as volunteers (24.)
The event raised $5,238. This brings the cumulative total Summerland has raised for the Terry Fox Foundation to over $41,000.
Over $550 million has been raised in Terry’s name since he ran his incredible Marathon of Hope in 1980. The Foundation keeps administration costs low, ensuring that most of the money raised goes directly to cancer research (85 per cent) or fundraising (10 per cent.)
The Summerland Fire Department brought a truck over for the kids to enjoy, as well as starting both events with a blast of the siren. Joanne Malar and the Orca Swim Club hosted the short 1k walk around downtown.
The familiar five-kilometre Giant’s Head Run route was also popular and was well marked with flour by Run Marshall Jud Thompson. Many families took part, with children as young as three weeks. Participants ran, walked, biked, wheel-chaired, and pushed strollers. Some actually did both routes. The special feeling of joy for helping such an important cause was abundant.
New this year was the formation of Summerland’s own Terry’s Team. Starting in 2010, the foundation has welcomed all cancer survivors to sign up as Terry’s Team Members.
They receive a package that includes a unique red Terry’s Team shirt identifying them as special members of The Terry Fox Foundation. Summerland’s four members have 64 years of combined cancer survivorship.
All four were busy at the event welcoming participants, giving out ribbons and completion certificates, and selling T-shirts. For more information about Terry’s Team, see www.terryfox.org. or call 1-888-836-9786.
Numerous businesses and organizations supported the event by providing food, fruit, water, promotion, and services: Astral Radio, Avee Graphics, Grizzly Springs Water, Nester’s Food Market, Summerland Credit Union, Summerland Fire Department, Summerland RCMP, Summerland Recreation Department, The Apple Barn and Tim Horton’s. Organizers and the Foundation thank these supporters for helping make the run such a success.
Participants were offered a free swim or soak in the hot tub at the Aquatic Centre after the event. A few T-shirts are left if anyone would like to purchase one. National School Run day is set for Wednesday, Sept. 28. The next Terry Fox Run is Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012.
“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
Keith Johnson
Summerland Terry Fox Run Organizer
Summerland