In 1980, at the age of 22, an ordinary young man named Terry had a goal to run across Canada on one leg as he battled cancer. After 143 days, he had to stop when his cancer spread to his lungs. To date, Terry's Marathon of Hope has raised more than $600 million for cancer research!
The run site I attend is at Wilket Creek Park which is a bit out of the downtown core and is such a lovely run site. Each year about 5000 participants take part at this location alone. There are sites all across Canada! Wilket Creek Park is particularly nice as it's full of green space and trails - so much better than running/walking in the downtown core (as there is another run site there as well).
This year my friend Casey's mom and step dad decided to join us which made it extra fun.
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| Runners starting to gather - 8am was a bit chilly! |
Due to some health issues, I decided to just walk the 5km this year. However, it was SUCH a pleasant walk and the sun was shining the entire time. I love seeing everyone from babies to 80 year olds out supporting such a great cause, getting fresh air and some exercise. The volunteers all have smiles on their faces and it's just a wonderful day. It makes my heart so full!
In previous years, there was always such a great assortment of games for kids and food for everyone after the run/walk - all of which is donated by lovely people throughout the city. This year, they stepped it up huge and not only were their the normal hotdogs, burgers, fruit and corn on the cob, they had food trucks at the event, fancy grilled cheese sandwiches, poutine (this is a Canadian thing - fries with gravy and cheese. Consider it the most amazing food ever.), pulled pork sliders, various salads and cupcakes. It was all so delicious.
We listened to a few bands play, walked around and were ready to head out by noon. They even gave us gift bags this year filled with treats and sunscreen!
At the end of the day, it really doesn't matter how far you ran or walked, how much you donated or raised or how much food is available afterwards. It's about continuing on with Terry's Marathon of Hope and raising any amount we can towards cancer research. We have come so far from when I first started participating in elementary school when I was 5. I can only hope that we will continue to make even bigger strides in the next 22 years.
Another successful Terry Fox Run. I can't wait for next year!!!
Do you have a charity you support or are passionate about?
I did the CN Tower climb which was a lot of fun. I should have done this! It's great to raise money for good causes!
ReplyDeleteI am a big supporter of Breast Cancer. Looks like you had perfect weather for the walk. Glad you had a great run and the money raised for such a good cause!
ReplyDeleteThe Terry Fox run is such a good cause! I only found out this year that it's an actual thing that everybody can do, and not just kids in elementary school. I might have to do it again one of these days :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome run! I love that it is held in so many places all for the same benefit!
ReplyDeleteI need poutine in my life. There are a few places here that claim to have it but I have still never tried it. Shame on me!
ReplyDeleteWay to go! I think participating in these kinds of charities is a win/win for all. I love running and starting my weekend mornings this way. :)
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