Terry Fox Run goes virtual in 2020, Sioux Lookout resident recalls meeting the Canadian icon
Tim Brody - Editor
Forty years ago, Canadian icon Terry Fox was forced to stop his Marathon of Hope outside of Thunder Bay.
“While Terry was forced to stop, his dream of a world without cancer continues,” the Terry Fox Foundation shared on September 1, announcing this year’s Terry Fox Run will take place virtually on Sunday, Sept. 20.
Sioux Lookout resident Ed Linkewich was on duty with the OPP 40 years ago and vividly remembers meeting Fox and taking what has become an iconic photo of him ascending Caver’s Hill along Highway 17 between Pays Plat and Nipigon, close to the time he was forced to end his Marathon of Hope.
“You couldn’t imagine the feeling of awe to see the man,” he shared. “He was a very intense individual, very focused, but very much in pain as well.”
Linkewich added, “It was a privilege to take the photographs of him. I was just trying to do him justice… I had Lake Superior in the background. When he got to the top of the hill, Terry said it was the hardest hill he’d had to climb.”
Reflecting back on that photo, Linkewich said he believes it captures Fox’s effort and determination.
Linkewich later presented Fox’s parents with his photos.
Part of Linkewich’s photo can also be seen on page 31 of the Canadian Passport.
In April, The Terry Fox Foundation announced that over $800 million has been raised to support cancer research in Terry’s name.
“Cancer isn’t waiting for the pandemic to end and neither can we. Even with the additional challenges Canadians are facing, we need to remain committed to supporting cancer research this September.” said Ara Sahakian, Interim Executive Director of The Terry Fox Foundation
“While we can’t run or walk together side-by-side and in-person this year, we know that Canadians are still determined to do what Terry asked of us: fundraise and donate to cancer research. The Foundation’s online platform at terryfox.org offers an easy and secure way to fundraise where participants can now also download the new Terry Fox Foundation App (powered by MoveSpring). The app offers a uniquely Terry Fox experience, with storytelling and inspiration to support Canadians on September 20th,” the Terry Fox Foundation informed.
People can register for this year’s run and donate to The Terry Fox Foundation by visiting https://terryfox.org.