Dear Editor,
This heartfelt letter is a huge shout out to the people of the Pontiac for their continued support of the Terry Fox run.
2021 marked the 41st anniversary of the national run. It was the 40th year for co-organizer, Rick Valin and I. It was a special year for us. We wanted . . .
to go the extra mile to honour my deceased wife, Betty and all those who have succumbed to this dreaded disease. To do this we needed the support of the community. The Pontiac people responded beautifully.
The MRC, Lions and Rotary Clubs, local businesses, Pontiac High School, Dr. S.E. McDowell, and many individuals all stepped up and went beyond the call of duty. This was our best year yet both financially and physically. More people were involved, and we managed to double our previous year’s financial totals. Our provincial director was amazed, saying we were among the top seven communities across Quebec.
When my wife and I came here in the 1970s, our original intention was to stay for only a year or two. That quickly changed when we noticed how quickly the people of the Pontiac rallied to support needy people and worthy causes. The last two years of the Terry Fox Run have been difficult due to COVID-19 and safety protocols. Local participants found a way to keep Terry’s legacy alive.
Terry once said, “If I cannot complete my journey I need others to continue.” The people of the Pontiac were certainly paying attention. Well done Pontiacers. It is a privilege to be a part of our caring community.
John Petty
Shawville, Que.
