Terry Fox Run raises $9,500

It wasn’t the $10,000 goal he was aiming for but local organizer Steve Maki wasn’t complaining after the Terry Fox Run here raised more than $9,500 on Sunday.
About 120 people took part in the event, showing up early to register and eager to begin the run. Maki, a constable with the Fort Frances OPP, said he was quite pleased with the turnout.
“We had $9,300 and some in pledges and $223 in T-shirt sales,” he said. “Last year, we did $7,300. At least we didn’t go backwards.”
Province-wide, Cst. Maki said the Terry Fox Run generated 15 percent more in pledges towards cancer research than last year. The one here saw a 30 percent jump.
And though it fell short of the $10,000 mark, Cst. Maki said he was quite proud Fort Frances managed to double the average increase across Ontario.
“I’d like to see us do $15,000 next year,” he said, noting he plans to help with the run again next year–and try to get an earlier start on the pledge drive.
“You set your sights somewhat lofty but realistic,” he added. “A little more work and planning, it will be $15,000.”
Money raised this year ranged from a few dollars to a few hundred. The top fundraiser this year was Lorne Ricard, who raised $1,500 in pledges.
“He said he had all the support of the mill workers,” Cst. Maki noted. “Another woman did $1,200 and another had $800.
“One real young boy took a $1.50 out of his pocket–all he had–and donated it,” he added. “It’s not how much you give but that you give as much as you can.”
The winner of the trip for two to Orlando, courtesy of International Travel Services here, went to Father Brian Primeau of St. Mary’s Church.
Cst. Maki thanked ITS, along with McDonald’s, Canada Safeway and the local Kiwanis Club, for all the help with the run this year.
Terry Fox Run T-shirts and pins are still available from Cst. Maki for the next week or so before they’re shipped back to the Terry Fox Foundation.