Dear Editor,
It is with great passion I write this about Terry Fox, voted Canada’s greatest hero, a gritty, determined young man who became a major influence in my . . .
life. In honour of Terry we get set for Sunday, Sept. 15.
This is the 38th run at Pontiac High School, originally organized by Rick Valin, my deceased wife Betty and myself. We have stayed the course thanks to the participants who make an effort to be there, the Lions and Rotary who have joined our team and the many businesses who support the cause financially.
A lot of good things are happening to promote Terry’s dream cause of finding a cure for cancer. In 2003, Betty Fox, Terry’s mom came to visit the students of PHS. In an attempt to bridge the gap between Terry’s generation and the youth of today, we were able to start a student run at PHS and we must say that it is going great guns thank to the continuing support of the staff. The day has become important to them.
Technology in the research field has advanced tremendously in the last number of years. Terry’s type of cancer is curable now. If Terry was here today he would probably be organizing his own event at the age of 61.
The survival rate of cancer is now at 63 per cent which is a major increase over 20 years ago and shows the impact your research dollar is having.
The good news continues. From year one of the Terry Fox event at PHS, a certain lady has participated every year. She took part herself, pushed her baby in a stroller and we all watched her daughter grow up and continue the tradition in the family.
Two years ago her mom called and said “I have breast cancer.” She continued the fight and this year told me she was cancer free. What a boost, not only for her and her family but also for organizers of this event.
A presentation was recently made to 18 mayors of the Pontiac MRC to include more people in the Pontiac to take part in the Terry Fox Run. How refreshing it was to see how the room embraced and supported this worthy cause. We are thankful for the support.
The event takes place Sunday, Sept. 15. Registration is 1 p.m. at PHS.
The term “run” is misleading as it is a ten km walk, bike, run, push a stroller, etc. Another option is taking your dog for a walk. Those taking part choose their distance and are assisted by water stations and cars patrolling the route. Participants are asked to be visible. Cross the starting line and support Terry’s dream of finding a cure for cancer.
Almost 40 years ago Terry uttered the words, “If I cannot continue this run I need others to complete this task.” I believe he is talking to you and I out there.
Organizers urge you to walk, cheer, volunteer! Let’s continue to make a difference. Come on Pontiac, we need you.
Submitted by John Petty
Shawville, Que.
