Over $10,000 was raised for the Terry Fox Foundation on Sept. 15 in the Comox Valley, and more funds are still rolling in.
The local event kicked off at the Comox Valley Sports Centre, where 237 participants ran, walked and cycled their way along country roads with one-km, two-km, five-km and 10-km routes ensuring there was something for everyone.
There were many long time runners in the crowd and a few enthusiastic teams who rallied together to raise funds, carrying on Terry Fox’s legacy to outrun cancer.
Team Muddy Paws had a fantastic time at the run. The group, which consisted of family members Angela, Heather and Tom Furlotte along with their good friend Lindsey Ponting and their furry friends Toby and Silky, collectively raised over $1,700.
Heather, a cancer survivor herself, met Terry Fox when he was running through Ontario so many years ago and has been continually been inspired by his determination and will to fight the disease.
Another Comox Valley team raising over $1,700 is Anna’s 2 Salon. This group of hairstylists demonstrated a strong sense of team spirit during the run. In addition to collecting pledges from family and friends the group had a jar in the salon for anonymous donations.
Many local businesses rallied around the run, donating draw prizes and resources. Participants enjoyed a wide selection of fruit from Thrifty Foods while snacking on pastries and yogurts from Quality Foods. Water Pure and Simple kept the crowd hydrated.
Over 40 volunteers worked together to make this event happen. The strong team spirit of the Glacier Kings hockey team was evident, as players cheered runners from the sidelines at water stations and marshalling sites along the route.
Longtime volunteer Pat Smith manned the merchandise table. “I’ve never missed a Terry Fox Run since it first started,” she said with a smile.
Organized by Active Comox Valley, with the help of Valley-wide municipal recreation departments and volunteer citizens, the Terry Fox Foundation raises funds to support cancer research. This is the 33rd annual event and organizers were thrilled with the support of the community to ensure this event’s success. If anyone missed the run and is still interested in donating, they can go to www.terryfox.org.
— Active Comox Valley