Terry Fox Day - Journée Terry Fox

Terry Fox Day, known in French as Journée Terry Fox, is observed on the second Monday of August in British Columbia and Manitoba. The day honours the extraordinary courage and determination of Terry Fox, a young Canadian who attempted to run across Canada with one leg to raise money for cancer research.

While Terry Fox Day is not a statutory holiday, it is widely observed and deeply respected across Canada. Terry Fox's legacy extends far beyond a single day — his Marathon of Hope has inspired millions of people worldwide and has raised over $850 million for cancer research since 1980.

Terrance Stanley Fox was born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and was raised in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia. An active athlete, Terry was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) in 1977, leading to the amputation of his right leg six inches above the knee.

Rather than giving in to despair, Terry conceived the idea of running across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. On April 12, 1980, he dipped his artificial leg in the Atlantic Ocean at St. John's, Newfoundland, and began his Marathon of Hope.

Terry ran the equivalent of a full marathon every day — approximately 42 kilometres — on one leg and a prosthetic. He ran through rain, wind, and scorching heat. After 143 days and 5,373 kilometres, Terry was forced to stop near Thunder Bay, Ontario, on September 1, 1980, when the cancer had spread to his lungs.

Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, at the age of 22. By the time he stopped running, he had raised $1.7 million. Within months, a national telethon raised $24.17 million — one dollar for every Canadian at the time.

The Terry Fox Run: The annual Terry Fox Run is held on a Sunday in mid-September in communities across Canada and around the world. It is a non-competitive event where participants walk, run, cycle, or wheel to raise money for cancer research. There are no entry fees and no minimum fundraising requirements.

School Programs: Many Canadian schools participate in the Terry Fox School Run each fall, teaching students about Terry's story and encouraging them to raise funds for cancer research.

Moment of Reflection: On Terry Fox Day, many Canadians take a moment to reflect on Terry's courage, determination, and selflessness. Flags may be lowered to half-mast in his honour.

Community Events: Communities in BC and Manitoba may host special commemorative events, including running events, exhibitions, and educational programs about Terry Fox.

The Terry Fox Foundation: The foundation continues Terry's mission by funding cancer research projects across Canada. Each year, it distributes millions of dollars to innovative research programs.