Continuing inspiration

Dear Editor,

Re: Your article Following in Terrys Footsteps Fri. Oct 17, 2008.

Thank you for writing such a wonderful article concerning local school participation in the 4th annual Terry Fox National School Run Day. Over 55,000 students in more than 215 schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador participated in that event this year. It is of great comfort to know Terrys example of hope and determination in the fight against cancer is very much alive in a generation born long after Terrys death

All Terry Fox Foundation events are grass roots, volunteer driven, and accessible to everyone. The Terry Fox Run is non-competitive, and there is no minimum donation required to participate Terrys humble and modest request of a dollar per person should guide participants in their giving. Individuals and corporations over the past 28 years have given unconditionally to cancer research in Terrys name to the tune of $400 million. Just 32 full time staff supports the many thousands of volunteers who coordinate all Terry Fox events. This teamwork approach enables The Terry Fox Foundation to advance an industry leading 87 cents of every dollar donated to cancer research. Your colleague Howard Butt has been part of this team for many, many years and we are so grateful to him for his time, energy and leadership in coordinating the Twillingate Terry Fox Run.

I would love to see The Terry Fox Run reinstated in the Lewisporte area and I would be extremely disappointed to see the Twillingate event be without a run organizer in 2009. Just as Terry united and inspired our nation in 1980, I believe his story continues to inspire the Canadian public to persevere in the cancer fight through grass roots fundraising. Be inspired! Become Involved! Contact our Terry Fox Foundation provincial office at 1-888-836-9786 (St. Johns 576-8428). Perhaps someone reading this article (or the staff at The Pilot) feels refreshed and ready to accept the rewarding opportunity of coordinating a 2009 Terry Fox Community Run?



Sincerely,

Heather Strong

Provincial Director (NL)

The Terry Fox Foundation