It’s been 39 years since Terry Fox stopped in town during his Marathon of Hope, and Orillians are getting ready to keep the hope alive for another year.
Sept. 9 to 15 is Terry Fox Week in Orillia. It will start with the Breakfast for Champions on Sept. 9 at Bayside Restaurant, where cancer survivors will gather for a morning meal.
At 11 a.m., Terry Fox Week will officially kick off with a flag raising at the Orillia Opera House.
On Sept. 11, a trivia night will be held at Kelsey’s, starting at 7 p.m. Cost is $15 per person, with all proceeds going toward cancer research.
Next up is the main event. The annual Terry Fox Run will take place Sept. 15, starting at Couchiching Beach Park. Participants will gather at Terry Fox Circle, where registration will be open at 11:30 a.m. Opening ceremonies will follow at 12:40 p.m. and the run will start at 1.
It’s called a run, but it’s not a race.
“You can walk, you can ride your bike, skateboard, wheelchair, scooter. You don’t have to run,” said organizer Alison Stoneman.
There are three routes available: one, five and 10 kilometres.
Last year’s event raised more than $39,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation, all of which went toward cancer research.
“Our goal is always $1 per every resident of Orillia, based on Terry’s goal of $1 per every Canadian,” Stoneman explained. “We have consistently exceeded our goal for 10 years, which is awesome.”
During the opening ceremonies, participants will see first-hand the value of their fundraising efforts as cancer survivors gather to show their appreciation.
“It’s to signify that we’re living beyond a cancer diagnosis because of the money raised,” said Stoneman, a cancer survivor. “It’s important for us survivors to thank the participants and donors. Not only are we saying thank you; we’re providing them with proof (that cancer research works).”
Single-use plastic water bottles will not be handed out this year, but refill stations will be available along the route for those who bring bottles.
After the run, food and drinks will be provided at the park. There will also be a photo booth, and Terry Fox T-shirts will be for sale.
While registration is accepted on the day of the event, participants are encouraged to collect pledges in advance. There is no minimum pledge requirement. Pledge forms are available at some downtown locations. They are also available by contacting Stoneman at 705-326-1404 or [email protected].
To register or donate, click here.
Student and adult volunteers are being sought for the event. For further information about volunteering, or for more details about any of the Terry Fox Week events, contact Stoneman.
