ORILLIA TERRY FOX RUN
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The all-volunteer Orillia Terry Fox Run organizing committee again turned to social media to spur contributions to research funded by the Terry Fox Foundation.
As of Sunday, Sept. 19 at midday, local fundraisers had amassed more than $21,000 in online donations without benefit of a community run for a second consecutive year. Merchandise sales are still being tallied.
“Despite the pandemic and the fourth wave keeping us from gathering at Terry Fox Circle for a second year, it was a great day for cancer research,” says Run organizer Alison Stoneman.
“We’ve found ways to generate much-needed research dollars, including an online auction that featured about 40 items generously donated by area individuals and businesses.”
Local organizers have also been testing one of 10 ‘tip-tap’ machines that allow on-the-spot donations via debit and credit cards. The Water Store on James Street in Orillia will host the tip-tap device until Saturday, Sept. 25.
The virtual version of the annual event kicked off Sunday afternoon with opening ceremonies on the Orillia Terry Fox Run YouTube channel, complete with messages from local dignitaries, two cancer survivors and the traditional rousing warm-up.
Final totals are not yet available, but organizers are hoping to build on the $800,000 plateau reached after last year’s final results were tabulated.
Commemorative 2021 T-shirts bearing a design created by two Metis artists in British Columbia are still available for purchase while supplies last, with sizes ranging from Youth to XXL. Those requiring certificates and participant stickers can also contact the organizing committee.
Terry Fox virtual Runs were also held at most locations across Canada. School runs will be held later this month; days and times to be finalized by schools.
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