The organizer of this year’s annual Terry Fox Run in Aurora is calling on residents to be part of the “camaraderie” this Sunday, Sept. 15.
“It’s really a long-term connection with the Terry Fox Run, the spirit of it, the camaraderie on the day — although we’re fundraising for cancer research, there’s a very positive, forward-thinking feel,” said Karen Fullbrook, a longtime participant in the run who is stepping up to lead the local event this year.
This year’s run takes place at the Aurora Community Arboretum, with the goal of raising $11,900.
So far $7,245 has been raised, she added.
The run sets off from the arboretum entrance near Aurora Town Hall at 9 a.m., with runners, walkers, cyclists, and strollers welcome to take part.
There are different lengths of runs for participants to choose from, all following the paved and crushed stone paths that snake through the Aurora Community Arboretum.
"I remember Terry Fox, of course, he is an inspiring figure in our Canadian history, and he made a real change," she said. "I remember him travelling across the country and I remember when he had to stop, how devastating that was for everyone."
Fullbrook said many Aurora residents saw Terry Fox run up Yonge Street, but the annual event gives all residents a chance to get involved, adding there's been a number of volunteers working hard to make the event possible.
“Schools are always actively involved but this is a chance for the community to be involved because parents, grandparents and aunts and uncles don’t do the school run,” said Fullbrook, a former teacher.
Aurora has participated in Terry Fox Runs since 1981, with the national campaign raising more than $850 million since 1980, according to the Terry Fox Foundation.
Participants can register and donations can be made online.
Registration can also be done on Sunday at 8:30 a.m. behind the Aurora Seniors Centre at 90 John West Way.
