Here are some fun and interesting facts about Terry Fox:
- Terry Fox started his famous Marathon of Hope run on April 12, 1980, beginning in St. John's, Newfoundland, running nearly a marathon (42 km) a day through Canada despite having an artificial leg due to cancer.
- He was known for his unusual running style which kept his shoe on the artificial leg from wearing out, though he wore through nine shoes on his healthy leg.
- On his 22nd birthday during the run, instead of eating his cake, Terry started throwing pieces of it, which started a food fight.
- Terry was a multi-sport athlete before his diagnosis, excelling in basketball, soccer, and rugby; he was named Athlete of the Year at his high school.
- His prosthetic leg was not designed for running, and caused him pain, but he adapted his running style to cope.
- Terry once said, "I want to try the impossible to show that it can be done" and "Anything's possible if you try"—quotes that inspired many.
- During the Marathon of Hope, Terry would wake up at 4 a.m. and start running by 5 a.m., often running through rain, snow, heat, and wind.
- He was the youngest person ever named a Companion of the Order of Canada, honored shortly before his death.
- The annual Terry Fox Run began in 1981 and now takes place in over 60 countries, raising over $900 million for cancer research worldwide.
- Terry's efforts inspired musicians (like Rod Stewart), schools, roads, coins, and numerous statues named in his honor.
These facts showcase Terry Fox's determination, humor, and lasting legacy as a Canadian hero and global symbol of hope in the fight against cancer.
