Legends and Heroes: Terry Fox

One of my heroes was a runner. Terry Fox, as many Canadians know, initiated the Marathon of Hope in 1980 to raise funds for cancer research and support for those dealing with this terrible disease. Terry had an audacious goal: to run across Canada, from sea to sea. This goal is all the more radical in light of the fact that Terry had lost a leg to cancer and had to accomplish his run across Canada on one leg and a prosthetic. The prosthetics in 1980 are not what they are today. Look closely at the video below to see what Terry used for his artificial leg.

Terry ran the equivalent of a marathon every day -- 42.2K/26.2 miles, day in and day out, on one good leg and one prosthetic, wearing running shoes circa 1980 (read: devoid of structural support and comfort). He did not complain. He did not cut corners. He ran with absolute integrity and encouraged every Canadian to participate in this Marathon of Hope. He said "if you've given a dollar, then you are part of the Marathon of Hope". This year, we mark the 30th anniversary of Terry's Marathon of Hope. We'll have more to say about Terry in future posts as we remember his extraordinary accomplishment. His courage, vision, and leadership set a standard for all Canadians and he is a true running legend and hero.