Sunday, September 18, 2022 saw a beautiful day in Acme, Alberta for the 42nd Annual Terry Fox Run. A group of 56 participants came together to uphold the legacy of a young man with a dream who refused to quit. The theme for 2022 - I'm Not A Quitter - showcasing Terry Fox's grit and determination, is perfect for welcoming back the first in-person event after two years of virtual runs.
The participants, ranging in age from 4 months and up, came from as far away as Calgary, Alberta to support an intimate, community-minded run focused on gratitude, reliability, and service to others. With a choice to complete a more challenging 9km or shorter 5km loop, everyone was able to pick the route that fit what they were looking for today. Regardless of the route or method, all were inspired by the dream of a tenacious, spirited young man whose Marathon of Hope was cut short by a disease that, at that time, very little was known.
As always, our local volunteers are second to none, it really is a full community effort. Despite a busier than normal harvest season with dry conditions, the Acme Volunteer Fire Department proudly provided traffic control on the highway portion of the run, creating a safe and fun environment for everyone. Mayor of Acme, Bruce McLeod, provided a shuttle service for bikes, carriages, and participants as needed. Following the highway section, the Northcott family donated a port-a-potty for participants to use if needed halfway around the loop. As well, every participant and volunteer greatly appreciated an ice cold bottle of water and a hot dog, generously donated by the Northcott family.
So far this year the 2022 Acme Terry Fox Run has raised $4460.00 for the Terry Fox Foundation, to fund cancer research. People may still participate in this year's campaign and support the Acme Terry Fox Run by making a donation at run.terryfox.ca/3154 by September 30, 2022. As well, you might choose to support the efforts of a school near you as all of our local schools will be participating in the annual Terry Fox School Run. School runs will begin this week and dates vary by school, so be sure to check with your local school to find out when their School Run is happening.
The day Terry was forced to stop was the day we started. Though Terry Fox never lived to see the full impact of his legacy, today through research funded by his efforts, the odds against cancer are drastically improved. Terry made it okay to talk about cancer and inspired a whole nation to lead the world in cancer research.
