TORONTO - As Canadians prepare for the annual Terry Fox Run, a new documentary titled Run Terry Run, directed by Sean Menard, unveils unseen footage of the iconic figure behind the event. The documentary focuses on Terry Fox's inspirational journey as a 21-year-old who, after having his right leg amputated due to osteosarcoma, embarked on a cross-country trek to raise funds for cancer research.
Terry Fox's brother, Darrell Fox, was present at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for a screening of the documentary held on Saturday. Darrell, who participated in Terry's historic Marathon of Hope that began in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, in April 1980, expressed his fondness for those memorable days spent alongside his brother.
During his incredible journey, Terry Fox ran a marathon every day for 140 consecutive days, covering more than 5,000 kilometers. His hopeful expedition came to a halt in Thunder Bay, Ontario, when tragedy struck; he learned that the cancer had metastasized to his lungs, leading to the end of his run. Terry Fox passed away just ten months later, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Darrell Fox, who served as an executive producer for the film, described the extensive 180-minute documentary as an intimate exploration of his brother's life and quest. On the TIFF red carpet, he shared his enduring memories: “I haven’t forgotten that run. It’s impossible, you know, and I cherish those memories of spending 93 days in a row with him.”
The screening attracted a significant number of Canadian athletes, including Paralympic ice hockey player Billy Bridges. Bridges highlighted the impact of Terry Fox’s legacy on disabled Canadians, stating, “As a disabled Canadian, growing up, our heroes were few and far between. There’s something special about what Terry accomplished and the passion that he lit within every single Canadian.”
Bridges also reflected on the influence Fox had in laying the groundwork for future support of cancer research: “Terry Fox planted a seed he knew he wouldn’t get to see grow. But without that, we wouldn’t be where we are today with the support that we have for Canadians and cancer research.”
Other notable attendees at the event included renowned Canadian athletes such as Andre De Grasse, Alysha Newman, Paul Poirier, and Piper Gilles, all of whom came to honor Terry Fox's enduring influence.
The Terry Fox Run is scheduled to take place across Canada on September 20, continuing the momentum of Fox's legacy and commitment to cancer research, which has inspired countless Canadians since its inception.
