Hello, my friends, it’s that time of year again, when our thoughts turn to the annual Terry Fox Run, where we all gather to raise money for cancer research and to pay homage to Terry Fox and his dream of finding a cure for cancer.
This year the Acton Terry Fox Run takes place on Sunday, September 15 at the Acton District School track. The official opening takes place at 8 a.m., with many enthusiastic participants and several dignitaries present to cut the ribbon, but people can arrive anytime between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to register and complete their desired number of laps around the track.
Just as a heads up, the event this year takes place one week before the Acton Fall Fair. This is an exciting time for Acton, because we now have a specific goal that we would like to reach. From day one, and over the past 43 years, the Acton Terry Fox Run has raised exactly $950,876.85 for the cause, and perhaps you can see where we have set our sights for the next two years.
In 2024 and 2025, if we can average $25,000 raised per year, we will reach the $1-million mark on the run’s 45th anniversary. This would be a monumental accomplishment that we can all be extremely proud of.
I know we can achieve this goal, since we have exceeded the $25,000 threshold on 15 previous occasions, the latest being in 2020. COVID did reduce our numbers over the past three years to an average of $20,300, but with renewed energy and a specific goal to strive for, I know all of you, our participants, sponsors and supporters will be up to the challenge.
Anyone wishing to participate or donate can do so by visiting the Acton run page on terryfox.org. To register as a participant, click on “Register and Raise Funds” and follow the instructions; to donate, click on “Donate” and follow the instructions. Those who used pledge forms in the past will receive one from the Terry Fox Run office in early August.
Pre-run, we are planning to be out and about in the community more this year, with a booth at the Leathertown Festival, the Acton Fall Fair and the Thursday Market at Prospect Park. Toonie donation boxes will also be set up at several locations around town.
This year’s motto reflects Terry’s sacrifice and determination during his Marathon of Hope in 1980: “No Matter the Distance. No Matter the Obstacles. No Matter the Journey. No Matter the Odds. No Matter What.”
To purchase T-shirts, obtain additional pledge forms, or for any comments or questions contact Jon by phone at 519-853-2015 or e-mail [email protected].
