45 Years Of Courage: Canadians Unite For The Terry Fox Run

On September 14, 2025, more than three million Canadians will lace up for the 45th annual Terry Fox Run, marking nearly half a century since Terry set out on his historic Marathon of Hope. From over 650 communities across the country to nearly 10,000 schools hosting Terry Fox School Runs later in the month, Canadians of every generation are coming together to carry forward his dream of ending cancer.

“Terry set out on his Marathon of Hope with a belief that Canadians would rally together to fund cancer research,” says Kirsten Fox, Terry’s eldest niece. “Forty-five years later, our family is still deeply moved and inspired to see millions of Canadians running and fundraising in his name.”

This milestone year has inspired a host of tributes, from the national Ride of Hope and the return of the Confederation Bridge Run to the release of the children’s book T is for Terry: An ABC of Courage. Music has also played a central role, with The Tragically Hip reimagining their song Courage in a limited-edition vinyl, available now with all proceeds supporting cancer research. “The film, with music by the Tragically Hip and powerful visuals, really captured Terry’s vision of how we all come together as a united front to drive meaningful change for cancer research,” Kirsten says.

One of the most powerful aspects of the Run is how it continues to resonate with young Canadians. “Witnessing the continued excitement that children have for participating in the Terry Fox Run, even 45 years later, is truly moving for me and my family,” Kirsten shares. “We hope that his values of perseverance and courage ignite for kids the spark that anyone can make a difference.”

While the legacy of Terry’s 1980 Marathon of Hope remains at the heart of the Foundation’s work, the focus is firmly on the future. Kirsten points to the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network, which unites Canada’s leading researchers, clinicians, patients, and donors to accelerate life-saving discoveries. “Forty-five years ago Terry’s relentless courage and determination united Canada and that is the exact same vision that is the driving force behind the MOHCCN,” she says.

Looking ahead, Kirsten hopes the movement continues to expand globally: “While Terry has such a profound impact in Canada, I’d love to see this continue to grow globally, with even more countries raising money to support cancer research. If generations ahead show up the way they have over the past 45 years, there’s no doubt we’ll get closer and closer to a cure, which is exactly what uncle Terry wanted.”

This September, whether you join your community run, cheer on students at a school event, or support through fundraising, one thing is certain: Terry’s story of courage continues to inspire—and Canada is still running with him. —Noa Nichol