Terry Fox: A Detailed Biography

Terrance Stanley “Terry” Fox (1958–1981) was the Canadian athlete and humanitarian whose **Marathon of Hope** — a cross-Canada run on one leg to raise money for cancer research — made him a national hero and global inspiration. Diagnosed with bone cancer at 18, he lost his right leg but refused to let it define him. His 1980 run raised $24 million in his lifetime and has generated over $850 million since. This biography covers his Winnipeg childhood, cancer battle, Marathon of Hope, and enduring legacy, as documented by the Terry Fox Foundation, the Canadian Encyclopedia, and the CBC Archives.

Early Life in British Columbia

Winnipeg to Port Coquitlam

Born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Terry moved to Port Coquitlam, BC, at age 8. A determined athlete, he played basketball and rugby despite being short (5′2″ in high school). He was coached by Bob McGill, who called him “gutsy as hell”.

Cancer Diagnosis

In March 1977, at age 18, Terry was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma in his right knee. His leg was amputated six inches above the knee. While recovering, he read about Dick Traum, the first amputee to run the New York Marathon, and decided to run across Canada for cancer research.

Training and the Marathon of Hope

Terry trained for 15 months, running 5,000 km on his prosthetic leg. He dipped his artificial foot in the Atlantic Ocean in St. John’s, Newfoundland, on April 12, 1980, aiming to reach the Pacific in Victoria, BC — one marathon (42 km) every day.

The Run Across Canada

Starting with almost no publicity, Terry’s courage captured Canada’s heart. By the time he reached Ontario, crowds lined the highways. He raised $1.7 million by Toronto and over $24 million total. On September 1, 1980, outside Thunder Bay, chest pain forced him to stop after 143 days and 5,373 km — cancer had spread to his lungs.

Final Months and Death

Terry returned to BC for treatment. Canada rallied: a telethon raised $10 million in one night. He received the Order of Canada and was named Newsmaker of the Year. Terry died on June 28, 1981 — exactly one month before his 23rd birthday.

Personal Life

Terry was shy but fiercely determined. He had a girlfriend, but they broke up before the run. His favourite quote: “I’m not a dreamer… but I believe in miracles. I have to.”

Death and Legacy

Terry Fox’s Enduring Impact

The first Terry Fox Run was held September 1981 — 300,000 participants raised $3.5 million. Today the annual run takes place in over 60 countries and has raised over $850 million for cancer research. Terry’s mother Betty and brother Darrell continued his work until their deaths. He is on Canadian stamps, coins, a mountain, and the $1 coin (2005). The Terry Fox Research Institute funds cutting-edge cancer research, as celebrated by the Terry Fox Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Terry Fox

Why Is Terry Fox Famous?

For the Marathon of Hope — running a marathon a day on one leg to fight cancer.

How Far Did Terry Fox Run?

5,373 km (3,339 miles) over 143 days.

Where Was Terry Fox Born?

Winnipeg, Manitoba, July 28, 1958.

When Did the Marathon of Hope Start and End?

April 12 – September 1, 1980.

How Much Money Has the Terry Fox Run Raised?

Over $850 million CAD.

Was Terry Fox Knighted?

He received the Order of Canada — Canada’s highest civilian honour.

How Did Terry Fox Die?

Cancer on June 28, 1981, aged 22.