Richmond community urged to support virtual Terry Fox Run on 40th anniversary

Many charities are suffering during the ongoing pandemic, and The Terry Fox Foundation is no different.

For the first time in its 40-year history, the annual Terry Fox Run on Sunday, Sept. 20 will be a virtual event, with participants attending in spirit alone.

However, it’s time like these that the charity needs the support of the public more than ever.

“With no actual runs this year, we’re concerned revenue will be down,” said organizer of the Richmond event Howard Jampolsky.

“Cancer research must and will continue.  So we encourage members of the community to make a special effort this year to donate.”

Jampolsky said he was obviously disappointed not to be able to host this year’s event, usually held at Garry Point Park, especially on such an auspicious occasion of its 40th anniversary.

“The volunteers and participants are like a family, and like so many families, we are unable to see each other in person due to the global pandemic,” added Jampolsky.

“We hope and pray for a return to normal life sooner than later, and hope that next year’s event will be a joyous opportunity for the community to gather once again in support of this great and important cause.”

This year, the foundation is calling the country-wide event the “Terry Fox Run. One Day. Your Way.”

There will be walkers, runners, bikers, and hikers, with some getting up at 4:30 a.m. to honour Fox’s favourite time to run, while others will walk and Skype family in Europe to participate in a global effort.

To register for the event and to fundraise, go to Terryfox.org.