With each step of his Marathon of Hope in 1980, Port Coquitlam’s Terry Fox inspired a nation.
Now, the foundation that shares his name is releasing a new clothing and merchandise collection.
It’s a fundraising effort for cancer research, ahead of this weekend’s 45th anniversary of his efforts.
“We have over 500 researchers in every region of the country working on Terry Fox projects, and it seems amazing that buying a hat can actually help them, but it does,” Terry Fox Foundation chief operating officer Martha McClew told CTV News on Tuesday.
At least 75 per cent of the proceeds from shirt sales will be contributed to cancer research.
“Terry was 21 when he ran the Marathon of Hope, which is to me incredible to think he was that thoughtful about what was needed,” said McClew. “He had researched himself that cancer research in Canada was really struggling. I mean, researchers were leaving the country because there wasn’t enough money.”
The words “finish it” are featured prominently in the new collection, and borrow from a Fox quote made during his iconic attempt to cross the country on his prosthetic leg.
“We all want the same thing,” said Terry Fox’s eldest niece Kirsten Fox, who also works for the foundation as the director of community development for British Columbia and the Yukon.
“We all want a cure for cancer and that’s what Terry wanted in 1980. It’s still our mission today, and we will not stop until we finish it.”
For the Fox family, the ongoing support for the foundation and its efforts continues to inspire.
“I wasn’t born when Terry started his Marathon of Hope,” added Kirsten Fox. “And it’s incredible to see how people are still connected to his story, who still believe in what he started.”
While the clothing collection officially launches this weekend, those who wish to purchase an item can pre-order.
Registration for the Terry Fox run opens on Saturday, with the event itself taking place in September.
