Joy Emeh
Updated on: October 9, 2024 1:54 pm GMT
Terry Fox Run to be Held in Grey-Bruce Communities This Sunday
This weekend, communities across Grey-Bruce will come together for the annual Terry Fox Run, an event that continues to inspire individuals to push through challenges in the name of cancer research. The run occurs on Sunday, coinciding with the legacy of Canadian hero Terry Fox, who endeavored to raise awareness and funds for cancer research after his own battle with the disease. This year, local participants are stepping forward to share their personal stories of resilience and hope, including an 86-year-old breast cancer survivor from Orillia.
Ferne Foster: A Survivor’s Story
Ferne Foster, a long-time resident of Orillia, is using her voice and experience as a cancer survivor to encourage community involvement in the Terry Fox Run. In January 2019, Foster discovered a lump in her breast, which turned out to be malignant. “I didn’t know it was malignant until my doctor told me,” she recalls, with the emotion of the moment still palpable. Facing the daunting prospect of cancer, Foster drew strength from her family, stating, “The spirit of my mother and my two children gave me the confidence that I could get through it.”
Foster endured four years of extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments, navigating the struggles of her illness while caring for her late husband, Don, who also battled cancer. Her steadfast attitude and commitment to caregiving exemplify her character. “I looked after my husband for 10 years, and together, we ran Foster Appliances in Orillia for 50 years,” she said, describing how she balanced work and home life during difficult times.
Preparing for the Run
This Sunday, Foster plans to participate in the Terry Fox Run at Tudhope Park, viewing it as an opportunity to give back to the medical professionals who supported her. “The staff were so wonderful,” she remarked, expressing deep appreciation for the care she received at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Despite challenges with mobility, Foster is determined to push through and use her walker during the event, embodying the spirit that Terry Fox inspired in countless others.
“Nobody can ever put me down, and I’ve got my walker,” she stated with resolve. “If Terry Fox was one in a million, maybe I can do a little bit, too.”
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
Foster’s participation is more than just a personal milestone; it also symbolizes the collective effort to raise funds for cancer research. So far, she has raised nearly $3,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation. “Everybody has been so kind. Nobody that I’ve asked has said no,” Foster shared, reflecting on her experience asking for donations. Her generous spirit and willingness to help others have fostered strong community ties, leading many to support her cause.
Her daughters, Kelly and Debbie, proudly refer to their mother as “the warrior princess.” “We are pretty proud of her,” Kelly added. “Whether she finishes the run or not, she still deserves a gold for her efforts.” Their encouragement speaks volumes about the family’s bond and their collective fight against cancer.
Why Participate in the Terry Fox Run?
The Terry Fox Run serves as a reminder of both personal and collective battles against cancer. Every year, the event draws thousands of participants who share a common goal: to fundraise and promote awareness for cancer research. Organizations and individuals use this opportunity to remember loved ones lost to the disease while celebrating the survivorship of those like Foster.
Details about the run, including registration and how to donate, can be found on the official Terry Fox Foundation website.
Joining the Cause
Community members interested in participating or donating to the Orillia Terry Fox Run can gather more information [here](https://terryfox.org). Every contribution, regardless of size, helps propel vital cancer research forward, allowing people like Foster to share their stories of resilience and hope.
As the event gets closer, everyone involved is reminded that they can work together to help fight cancer. They’re also honoring Terry Fox and the amazing things he did.
