Terry Fox Run set to go Sunday

The annual Terry Fox Run to raise money for cancer research is coming up this Sunday (Sept. 16) and organizers have got everything lined up. Now it’s just a matter of getting people out to run, walk, bike, or in-line skate that day.
“We’re just gearing up and getting ready to go,” said Debbie Bazylewski of the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau. “We encourage everyone to come out and support the Terry Fox Foundation and the run to find a cure for cancer.
“It should be a fun time and it’s for a good cause,” she added. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy themselves.”
The run will start at 2 p.m., with registration beginning at 1 p.m. at the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau (in the old CN station).
Opening ceremonies will include deputy mayor Sharon Tibbs, members of the Fort Frances Highlanders Pipe Band, the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Guard, warm-ups by Energy Fitness Centre, and the reading of a special letter from Terry Fox’s brother, Darrell Fox, by a representative from the Terry Fox Foundation.
The “Marathon of Hope,” which will take place rain or shine, will go from the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau to Pither’s Point Park and back (there will be water stops along the way).
“The participants are welcome to a free barbecue afterwards,” noted Bazylewski, adding the meal, which will be at the Volunteer Bureau, is being provided by Community Living Fort Frances and District.
It’s not too late to collect pledges, with pledge sheets available at various locations around town where posters are pinned up, including the Volunteer Bureau and Good Impressions Printing.
The local Terry Fox Run site is #241 if you are collecting or donating pledges online at www.terryfoxrun.org
Last year, the run here raised about $12,000—and organizers want to surpass that total, said Bazylewski.
“Cancer touches so many people’s lives in this community, in one way or another,” she noted. “If we could surpass that goal, that’d be great.
“It’s always good to shoot for more.”
There will be a “Terry Fox T-shirt Giveaway Draw,” balloons, a children’s activity area, Terry Fox grab bags, and door prizes at the after-run barbecue.
Participants also are encouraged to sign a guest book in honour of Terry Fox.
Bazylewski added Terry Fox merchandise, including books, T-shirts ($15), and sweatshirts ($35), will be available at the event.
For more information on the Terry Fox Run or being a volunteer at it, call Bazylewski at 274-9555.