Terry Fox’s sister has spoken of her brother’s determination after he was found to have cancer.
Speaking to students, faculty and staff at the Canadian University of Dubai, Judith Fox used his story as an example of the difference a person can make in furthering a cause.
"Most of all Terry wanted to show the ‘power of one’ – how just one person could make a global difference in the fight against cancer," she said.
Her visit to the university was timed to coincide with the Dubai leg of the Terry Fox Run, which was held last Saturday.
Terry died at the age of 22 in 1981, but the event has raised more than US$650 million (Dh2.4 billion) for cancer research. It is held in cities across the globe, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
The Terry Fox Run was inspired by the Canadian’s attempt to run the length of Canada with a prosthetic leg to raise money for cancer. Terry’s leg had been amputated after he contracted bone cancer.
Ms Fox said Terry’s commitment and single-mindedness helped to change the face of cancer forever. "Terry was inspired by the suffering of people around him who were struggling with the disease," she said. "In Terry’s name we will carry on until we achieve his dream for a cancer-free world."
Unlike other major fund-raising events, the proceeds remain in the countries in which the runs are held, and no corporate sponsorship is accepted.
This is in line with Terry’s refusal to accept endorsements during his cross-Canada run, where he turned down every offer of sponsorship because he believed it could hurt his goal of raising public awareness.

Source: The National