Terry Fox Run USA

Who is Terry Fox?

Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist. In 1980, with one leg having been amputated due to cancer, he embarked on an east-to-west cross-Canada run, which he called the “Marathon of Hope,” to raise money and awareness for cancer research. He inspired and united the entire country in a way that had never been seen before, nor since. 

Terry Fox took the first steps in his journey on April 12, 1980. For 143 days, he was followed on this cross-Canada run as it gained momentum, ultimately raising over $24 million Canadian dollars. Remarkably, not even Terry’s death in 1981 diminished the passion for his cancer research legacy, with over $900 million Canadian dollars raised and 1,300 cancer research projects funded to date.

Before his death on June 28, 1981, Terry had achieved his once unimaginable goal of $1 from every Canadian. More importantly, he had set in motion the framework for an event, the Terry Fox Run, that would ignite cancer research in Canada and around the world, bringing hope and health to millions of people.

What is Terry Fox Run USA?

Terry Fox Run USA is the same annual fundraising event that is held in Canada for our partners in the USA, embodying Terry’s spirit and bringing people together in pursuit of his dream of a world without cancer. This event brings participants, teams and communities together in support of innovative cancer research at our USA partner Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Each year, more than three million participants take part in a Terry Fox Run, at over 9,000 locations in more than 30 countries. There are many ways to get involved in the Terry Fox Run and supporting a team or an individual can be very rewarding as well. Get involved today and be a part of something truly special.

Start a Run

Terry Fox Runs are organized by passionate people who share Terry’s values and vision. Organizers say it’s a profoundly meaningful experience. We’re will support you every step of the way with everything you need, at no cost to you.

Find a Run Site

The Terry Fox Run is a fall tradition in Canada and around the world. Funds raised are used to support local cancer research initiatives. For example, Terry Fox Runs in the USA fund researchers in the USA.

Team Up for Terry

Be part of Terry’s relentless pursuit for a world without cancer. Rally your family, friends, and colleagues to raise urgently-needed funds for cancer research. Get involved! Honour a loved one! Create your own annual tradition!

“I want to set an example that will never be forgotten.”

Terry Fox

For more information or to register your event, please contact the Terry Fox Foundation’s International Run Director Peter Sheremeta by email at: international@terryfox.org or by phone at: (450) 923-9747 ext. 303.