Big crowd expected at 32nd annual ‘Terry Fox Run’ in Kelowna

Organizers of the 32nd annual ‘Terry Fox Run’ in Kelowna are hoping for 1,000 people to take part in this year’s event.

“We get to remember the immense example Terry set as a hero, as a giving person and we are looking to continue his dream of finding a cure for cancer,” organizer for the Terry Fox Run in Kelowna Norm Sabourin said.

Since the event began in the central Okanagan city in 1985, the community has raised about $860,000. Worldwide, more than $700 million has been collected for cancer research.

“As Terry said he was looking for one dollar from every Canadian. If we got one dollar form every Canadian every year that would be huge, ” Sabourin said. “I would hope some people would donate more than a dollar but every donation helps.”

Rejeanne Droppo has been taking part in the Terry Fox run most of her life but since being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 28, the event has become very personal.

“It’s 14 years now, it’s still extremely emotional especially when I start thinking about my parents, and my kids and that I am still here,” the Kelowna woman said.

Droppo doesn’t underestimate the critical role Terry Fox and his legacy have played in cancer research advancements.

“One of the things I remember my dad saying is the timing of when Terry Fox ran and started the research, my dad is like, oh my gosh, if this would have happened 30 years earlier you would not have made it and now because of research you are here.” Droppo said.

The run takes place in Kelowna Sunday morning at the Mission Sports Field. Registration starts at 10 a.m. Participants can choose to run or walk 1km, 5kms or 9kms.

Donations can be made online at terryfox.org or in person at the run.

There will be live bands and a silent auction at the event.

Everyone is welcome.