Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
Students at Fort St. James Secondary school participated in the annual Terry Fox Run but not before a kick-off assembly marking the 35th Marathon of Hope.
Principal Craig Houghton, determined to keep the legacy alive within the school reminded his students that Terry Fox ran a marathon a day for 143 days and ran a total of 500 miles.
In 1980, after losing a leg to cancer, Terry Fox was determined to find a cure and embarked on a cross-country run to help raise money and awareness for cancer research. He was forced to stop his run in Thunder Bay, Ontario because the cancer had spread to his lungs. He died shortly after at the age of 22.
It was apparent that after a brief video highlighting the life of this iconic Canadian figure, the students were eager to take part in his cause. “It’s important that his legacy lives on and that he’s not forgotten,” grade 12 student, Kaylee Walstrom said.
Fellow grade 12 student, Taylor Beauchemin, couldn’t agree more. “We need to support Terry Fox and cancer. We’re taking a stand for it and we’re trying to find a cure,” Beauchemin said.
Laced up and ready, students and teachers made their way outside. Some stretched beforehand while others couldn’t wait to get started. A beautiful sunny day only added to the smiles and laughter as the students raced, ran and walked their way around the school track determined to help make a difference.
Music blared and snacks and water were on the ready as the students made their way around the track.
“It brings a greater sense of community,” grade 9/10 English teacher, Kate-Nicola Mounce said. “Because we are so isolated, it gives students a chance to take part, to give them greater world context,” Mounce said.
And take part the students did as they made their way around the track remembering a man’s single dream that today continues to bring a world of hope.
