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Forever Terry: A Legacy in Letters
#1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER
Terry Fox defined perseverance and hope for a generation of Canadians. Forty years after Terry's run ended, Forever Terry reflects what Terry's legacy means to us now, and in the future.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope, Forever A Legacy in Letters recounts the inspiration, dedication, and perseverance that Terry Fox embodied, and gives voice to an icon whose example spoke much louder than his words. Comprising 40 letters from 40 contributors, and edited by Terry’s younger brother Darrell on behalf of the Fox family, Forever Terry pays tribute to Terry's legacy, as seen through the eyes of celebrated Canadians ranging from Margaret Atwood, Bobby Orr, Perdita Felicien, Jann Arden, and Christine Sinclair, to those who accompanied Terry on his run, Terry Fox Run organizers, participants, supporters, and cancer champions. Appearing alongside never-before-seen photos of their hero, their reflections reveal connections that readers would never have expected, and offer a glimpse into the way goodness and greatness inspire more of the same.
Forever Terry is a testament to the influence one brave man has had on the shape of Canadian dreams, ambitions, and commitment to helping others. Author proceeds support the Terry Fox Foundation, which has raised over $800 million for cancer research.
Contributors include Hayley Wickenheiser, Tom Cochrane, Darryl Sittler, Shawn Ashmore, Doug Alward, Nadine Caron, Douglas Coupland, Rick Hansen, Sidney Crosby, Akshay Grover, Lloyd Robertson, Bret Hart, Leslie Scrivener, Isadore Sharp, Wayne Gretzky, Jim Pattison, Catriona Le May Doan, Malindi Elmore, Michael Bublé, Silken Laumann, Steve Nash, Karl Subban, and Marissa Papaconstantinou, among many others.
Terry Fox defined perseverance and hope for a generation of Canadians. Forty years after Terry's run ended, Forever Terry reflects what Terry's legacy means to us now, and in the future.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope, Forever A Legacy in Letters recounts the inspiration, dedication, and perseverance that Terry Fox embodied, and gives voice to an icon whose example spoke much louder than his words. Comprising 40 letters from 40 contributors, and edited by Terry’s younger brother Darrell on behalf of the Fox family, Forever Terry pays tribute to Terry's legacy, as seen through the eyes of celebrated Canadians ranging from Margaret Atwood, Bobby Orr, Perdita Felicien, Jann Arden, and Christine Sinclair, to those who accompanied Terry on his run, Terry Fox Run organizers, participants, supporters, and cancer champions. Appearing alongside never-before-seen photos of their hero, their reflections reveal connections that readers would never have expected, and offer a glimpse into the way goodness and greatness inspire more of the same.
Forever Terry is a testament to the influence one brave man has had on the shape of Canadian dreams, ambitions, and commitment to helping others. Author proceeds support the Terry Fox Foundation, which has raised over $800 million for cancer research.
Contributors include Hayley Wickenheiser, Tom Cochrane, Darryl Sittler, Shawn Ashmore, Doug Alward, Nadine Caron, Douglas Coupland, Rick Hansen, Sidney Crosby, Akshay Grover, Lloyd Robertson, Bret Hart, Leslie Scrivener, Isadore Sharp, Wayne Gretzky, Jim Pattison, Catriona Le May Doan, Malindi Elmore, Michael Bublé, Silken Laumann, Steve Nash, Karl Subban, and Marissa Papaconstantinou, among many others.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published September 1, 2020
14 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 19, 2020
While Canadians tend to be labelled as soft and warm-hearted, we do have our moments of divisiveness. However, merely uttering the name ‘Terry Fox’ is enough to end all battles as we think of a young man who truly earned the label ‘Canadian Hero’. After losing his leg to cancer, Terry watched the numerous faces of children who were on the cancer ward and pledged that he would raise money to help end this horrible disease. He strapped on his prosthetic leg and began to train so that he could run and raise money for those who needed it most. After feeling that he was ready for the task, he made his way to the far eastern part of Canada, dipped his shoe in the Atlantic Ocean, and began a Marathon of Hope in April 1980. Terry ran the equivalent of a marathon every day, with hopes of making it across the country, raising money along the way. While he made it only 143 days before the cancer returned and it was too much, he vowed that he would continue as soon as he was able. Alas, the marathon was never continued and Terry died in 1981, but his legacy lives on.
This is a collection of letters and memories by Canadians—famous and common folk—sharing their recollections of the Marathon of Hope or the impact that Terry had on them. Some were not even born during any of Terry’s life, while others had personal moments with him along his 143 days on the road. Each is a touching tribute, remembering Terry’s perseverance and how he sought only to help others, pushing himself past his pain. On the fortieth anniversary of the events, this is a way to remember the man, his determination, and how a country (and eventually world) rallied behind him and the cause he held dear. Some messages are quite inspirational, others highly informative. What they all have in common is to profess that Terry Fox was a man who was as selfless as he was heroic. If anyone deserves the label, let it be Terry!
I lost my father 20 years ago, so I am well aware of the pain that cancer can cause a family. I was also too young to actively remember the Marathon of Hope, but have seen many videos and also visited the spot in Thunder Bay where Terry had to hang up his shoes and return to Vancouver for treatment. He has touched Canadians with his efforts to raise money so that cancer might be eradicated, though he was humble about it. Putting himself out there and letting the country cheer him on was one thing, but this was a personal pledge to himself, hoping that no one else would have to feel helpless, should he be able to raise enough. Each message in here touched my heart as I read them. They were kind and full of hope, making me realise that Terry Fox lives in us all. With annual walks around Canada (and now, parts of the world) to raise money for cancer research, I can see just how far a single man’s movement can go to make a difference. While Terry may have passed on in 1981, the Terry Fox Run has raised upwards of $800 million to date, with no signs of stopping. You will be missed, Terry, but never forgotten. Canada has your back and loves you so very much!
Kudos, Terry Fox and all the contributors to this book, for reminding me that a small act of selflessness can change the world, one step at a time.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
This is a collection of letters and memories by Canadians—famous and common folk—sharing their recollections of the Marathon of Hope or the impact that Terry had on them. Some were not even born during any of Terry’s life, while others had personal moments with him along his 143 days on the road. Each is a touching tribute, remembering Terry’s perseverance and how he sought only to help others, pushing himself past his pain. On the fortieth anniversary of the events, this is a way to remember the man, his determination, and how a country (and eventually world) rallied behind him and the cause he held dear. Some messages are quite inspirational, others highly informative. What they all have in common is to profess that Terry Fox was a man who was as selfless as he was heroic. If anyone deserves the label, let it be Terry!
I lost my father 20 years ago, so I am well aware of the pain that cancer can cause a family. I was also too young to actively remember the Marathon of Hope, but have seen many videos and also visited the spot in Thunder Bay where Terry had to hang up his shoes and return to Vancouver for treatment. He has touched Canadians with his efforts to raise money so that cancer might be eradicated, though he was humble about it. Putting himself out there and letting the country cheer him on was one thing, but this was a personal pledge to himself, hoping that no one else would have to feel helpless, should he be able to raise enough. Each message in here touched my heart as I read them. They were kind and full of hope, making me realise that Terry Fox lives in us all. With annual walks around Canada (and now, parts of the world) to raise money for cancer research, I can see just how far a single man’s movement can go to make a difference. While Terry may have passed on in 1981, the Terry Fox Run has raised upwards of $800 million to date, with no signs of stopping. You will be missed, Terry, but never forgotten. Canada has your back and loves you so very much!
Kudos, Terry Fox and all the contributors to this book, for reminding me that a small act of selflessness can change the world, one step at a time.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
July 28, 2021
4/5 Stars!
Wowowow!
This was an incredible read!
Most people know, or at least have heard of Terry Fox.
A young man who unfortunately suffered from cancer, and had to have his leg amputated.
However, this was the fuel to start a huge fire of starting something that has continued, long after his death.
The Terry Fox Foundation is a foundation that has continuously raised money for Cancer Research, in the hopes that one day, a true cure for cancer will be found and help the millions of people who deal with cancer every year.
In this book, Forever Terry; we as the reader get a first hand look at letters written to Terry, from many of today’s most influential/well known Canadians.
We get to know and understand the many stories of how Terry Fox’s’ Marathon Of Hope, inspired millions to do what Terry did and raise more and more money for Cancer Research.
If you love a good Non Fiction, Biography of Influential people, than definitely give Forever Terry a read!
Wowowow!
This was an incredible read!
Most people know, or at least have heard of Terry Fox.
A young man who unfortunately suffered from cancer, and had to have his leg amputated.
However, this was the fuel to start a huge fire of starting something that has continued, long after his death.
The Terry Fox Foundation is a foundation that has continuously raised money for Cancer Research, in the hopes that one day, a true cure for cancer will be found and help the millions of people who deal with cancer every year.
In this book, Forever Terry; we as the reader get a first hand look at letters written to Terry, from many of today’s most influential/well known Canadians.
We get to know and understand the many stories of how Terry Fox’s’ Marathon Of Hope, inspired millions to do what Terry did and raise more and more money for Cancer Research.
If you love a good Non Fiction, Biography of Influential people, than definitely give Forever Terry a read!
August 27, 2020
If you ask anyone in Canada over the age of 6 who Terry Fox was and they almost surely will be able to answer you. The impact that Terry, who lost a leg to cancer at the age of 18, had on Canadians when he was running his Marathon of Hope 40 years ago was like nothing else in our history. Can you imagine running a marathon every day on one leg taking you on a journey that will take you from Newfoundland to Victoria - a distance of about 7,000 km? If you are not familiar with Terry’s running gait, at a time where prosthetics were not as developed as they are today, please just take a moment to watch a clip. This movement was not without pain, and frequently, blood caused by the constant irritation of his prosthesis with this gait. While Terry’s cancer returned and he had to stop his journey, he had already completed 143 legs and 5373 km and had raised a significant amount of money. In the past 40 years the foundation in his name has raised over $800 Million dollars in many different countries. I’d say that he’s created quite a legacy.
On this, the 40th Anniversary year of the Marathon of Hope, Forever Terry: A Legacy in Letters was created to remind the reader of all this special man has done for humanity. The book was edited by Terry’s brother, Darrell Fox, who joined Terry on his journey. The book is made up of letters written by famous sport personalities, journalists, fellow humanitarians, volunteers and others who themselves are battling cancer or have been impacted by it. These letters discuss the influence and impact Terry has left on their lives - quite the tribute given that several hadn’t even been born when Terry ran The Marathon of Hope.
One of my favourite parts of the book is the typewritten letter that Terry wrote to gain sponsorship for his journey. I also appreciated the photos of Terry throughout the book. The discussion on Terry’s chemotherapy following the amputation magnifies this man’s determination and courage. There is an important discussion of how and why Terry decided to run The Marathon of Hope. His positivity and drive to make a difference in this world will forever be remembered.
Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here. This book publishes September 1.
On this, the 40th Anniversary year of the Marathon of Hope, Forever Terry: A Legacy in Letters was created to remind the reader of all this special man has done for humanity. The book was edited by Terry’s brother, Darrell Fox, who joined Terry on his journey. The book is made up of letters written by famous sport personalities, journalists, fellow humanitarians, volunteers and others who themselves are battling cancer or have been impacted by it. These letters discuss the influence and impact Terry has left on their lives - quite the tribute given that several hadn’t even been born when Terry ran The Marathon of Hope.
One of my favourite parts of the book is the typewritten letter that Terry wrote to gain sponsorship for his journey. I also appreciated the photos of Terry throughout the book. The discussion on Terry’s chemotherapy following the amputation magnifies this man’s determination and courage. There is an important discussion of how and why Terry decided to run The Marathon of Hope. His positivity and drive to make a difference in this world will forever be remembered.
Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here. This book publishes September 1.
August 9, 2021
Terry Fox defined perseverance and hope for a generation of Canadians. Forty years after his Marathon of Hope ended, FOREVER TERRY: A LEGACY IN LETTERS shines a light on his legacy, in the words of the people he inspired.
Most Canadians of school age and older are aware of Terry Fox and can tell you about Terry losing his leg to cancer and seeing children in the cancer ward...his plan to run all the way across Canada from the East Coast to the West Coast to raise money to find the cure for cancer...how he started in St. John's, Newfoundland and ran a marathon everyday....more than 40 kilometres everyday...even though it was painful and his prosthesis made his stump bleed...he made it all the way to Thunder Bay, Ontario...cancer reoccurred sending him to hospital...
Every year in September Terry Fox Runs are held across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
This is a book to savour...numerous photos of Terry Fox...letters from persons inspired by Terry...Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, Bobby Orr, Darryl Sittler, Silken Laumann, Jann Arden, Tom Cochrane, Rick Hansen...
Terry Fox is a true Canadian hero!!
*Author proceeds support the Terry Fox Foundation
Most Canadians of school age and older are aware of Terry Fox and can tell you about Terry losing his leg to cancer and seeing children in the cancer ward...his plan to run all the way across Canada from the East Coast to the West Coast to raise money to find the cure for cancer...how he started in St. John's, Newfoundland and ran a marathon everyday....more than 40 kilometres everyday...even though it was painful and his prosthesis made his stump bleed...he made it all the way to Thunder Bay, Ontario...cancer reoccurred sending him to hospital...
Every year in September Terry Fox Runs are held across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
This is a book to savour...numerous photos of Terry Fox...letters from persons inspired by Terry...Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, Bobby Orr, Darryl Sittler, Silken Laumann, Jann Arden, Tom Cochrane, Rick Hansen...
Terry Fox is a true Canadian hero!!
*Author proceeds support the Terry Fox Foundation
October 19, 2020
Wonderful collection of letters from so many people, famous and not so famous, supporting Terry Fox's Run across Canada in 1980. It isn't often one person can captivate an entire nation, but that is exactly what he did with his brave attempt to run across Canada. Even non-Canadians will be touched by this collection.
September 1, 2020
An incredible look at how one person can change a whole country, a stirring example of resilience and determination that made me tear up at least twice. The letters from the everyday people are even more compelling than the ones from their more famous contributors. A great celebration of a true Canadian hero.
February 28, 2021
This book brought me to tears many times as you read letters from those whose lives were impacted by this amazing young man.
I visited the memorial only once and I was in awe as I really loved what he represented. This allowed me to relive some of that as I remember all of the items that came out about this wonderful athlete.
He is an inspiration to so many as evidenced by this book.
I visited the memorial only once and I was in awe as I really loved what he represented. This allowed me to relive some of that as I remember all of the items that came out about this wonderful athlete.
He is an inspiration to so many as evidenced by this book.
July 10, 2022
It is truly amazing what Terry Fox did in his short life. He continues to inspire so many people with his humbleness, strength, courage and stubbornness. Even though he is gone, his memory and his dream will forever live in us all. It was so special and tear jerking to read of just a handful of people on how Terry touched their lives. Truly inspirational!
September 19, 2020
This is a fantastic anthology of recollections and reflections on Terry Fox. It is inspiring and heartwarming to read the stories of his family, friends and others as they share their stories of spending time with Terry, being inspired by Terry and reflecting on the great Canadian, 40 years after the first Marathon of Hope!
It is amazing to think that his Marathon of Hope has now raised over $800 million dollars for cancer research! It is awe inspiring to know that he ran a marathon each day as he ran from Newfoundland to Thunder Bay, Ontario with a prosthetic circa 1980!
He is a true, Canadian hero and I am looking forward to participating in the virtual walk tomorrow as a member of Terry's team.
It is amazing to think that his Marathon of Hope has now raised over $800 million dollars for cancer research! It is awe inspiring to know that he ran a marathon each day as he ran from Newfoundland to Thunder Bay, Ontario with a prosthetic circa 1980!
He is a true, Canadian hero and I am looking forward to participating in the virtual walk tomorrow as a member of Terry's team.
Currently reading
March 5, 2021The book that I have chosen to read is titled “Forever Terry; A Legacy in Letters.” It consists of many letters, written by people living worldwide, who have been touched by the actions and motives of Terry Fox. Furthermore, the novel is edited by Darrell Fox, Terry Foxs’ younger brother. “Terry Fox; A Legacy in Letters” is a non-fiction book dedicated to informing the reader on the mark that Terry left behind. The book is inspired by the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope. Individuals from around the world, well known and not as well known, participate in reliving the astonishing cross-country marathon Terry attempted to achieve in the year 1980. To say the least, Canada is honoured to have the name Terry Fox represent the nation.
Rick Hansen is one of the many individuals who participated in retelling his story and the connection between him and Terry. He is the founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation and is a proud supporter of helping individuals suffering from disabilities. Through his passage, it is clear to see that every individual has a purpose, and as long as it is recognized, the human mind and body is capable of achieving anything. As described by Hansen, Terry was an average kid who had a big heart and dream to help those around him. Someone who can be described as selfless. Despite experiencing the life-threatening disease firsthand, Terry worked insanely hard to prove that there is “ability in disability.” Fox and Hansen developed an inseparable bond with each other and played on the same wheelchair basketball team. As a matter of fact, Rick Hansen was one of the first people to hear about Terry’s inspiring dream of running across Canada to raise awareness for cancer. Like many other individuals who are touched by the story of Terry Fox, Rick Hansen was inspired to become the best version of himself by “embarking on his Motion World Tour.” Without the friendship that Rick was lucky enough to experience with Terry Fox, he would not be the person that he is today.
Throughout the novel “Terry Fox; A Legacy in Letters,” many of life’s challenges and obstacles become apparent. Every individual who expressed their gratitude towards Terry Fox learned an important life lesson from Terry. Some individuals learned the importance of hard work, a strong work ethic, and perseverance even through the toughest of life’s days. The truthfulness of the book is brought to life by each person who wrote a letter. It becomes clear that life is not sunshine and rainbows, and that every individual has different experiences and reacts to hardship in their own way. For Terry, he reacted by wanting to help others as opposed to dwelling on the idea of having cancer. As well, the book can be seen as an accurate reading because it shows the hardships in one’s life. Not one person in adulthood has gone through life dealing without any kind of hardship ranging from an injury, to a life-threatening disease such as cancer. Throughout the book, readers learn the true definition of what a selfless person is. The passages do not hide the negative or hard parts of Terry’s life but, explains coping strategies on how he was able to overcome the negatives and be optimistic. The book is labelled as a non-fiction reason for an important reason. “Terry Fox; A Legacy in Letters” describes hardship and failure and inspires many to be the better version of themselves just like Canada’s hero Terry Fox.
Rick Hansen is one of the many individuals who participated in retelling his story and the connection between him and Terry. He is the founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation and is a proud supporter of helping individuals suffering from disabilities. Through his passage, it is clear to see that every individual has a purpose, and as long as it is recognized, the human mind and body is capable of achieving anything. As described by Hansen, Terry was an average kid who had a big heart and dream to help those around him. Someone who can be described as selfless. Despite experiencing the life-threatening disease firsthand, Terry worked insanely hard to prove that there is “ability in disability.” Fox and Hansen developed an inseparable bond with each other and played on the same wheelchair basketball team. As a matter of fact, Rick Hansen was one of the first people to hear about Terry’s inspiring dream of running across Canada to raise awareness for cancer. Like many other individuals who are touched by the story of Terry Fox, Rick Hansen was inspired to become the best version of himself by “embarking on his Motion World Tour.” Without the friendship that Rick was lucky enough to experience with Terry Fox, he would not be the person that he is today.
Throughout the novel “Terry Fox; A Legacy in Letters,” many of life’s challenges and obstacles become apparent. Every individual who expressed their gratitude towards Terry Fox learned an important life lesson from Terry. Some individuals learned the importance of hard work, a strong work ethic, and perseverance even through the toughest of life’s days. The truthfulness of the book is brought to life by each person who wrote a letter. It becomes clear that life is not sunshine and rainbows, and that every individual has different experiences and reacts to hardship in their own way. For Terry, he reacted by wanting to help others as opposed to dwelling on the idea of having cancer. As well, the book can be seen as an accurate reading because it shows the hardships in one’s life. Not one person in adulthood has gone through life dealing without any kind of hardship ranging from an injury, to a life-threatening disease such as cancer. Throughout the book, readers learn the true definition of what a selfless person is. The passages do not hide the negative or hard parts of Terry’s life but, explains coping strategies on how he was able to overcome the negatives and be optimistic. The book is labelled as a non-fiction reason for an important reason. “Terry Fox; A Legacy in Letters” describes hardship and failure and inspires many to be the better version of themselves just like Canada’s hero Terry Fox.
September 10, 2020
Terry Fox was an ordinary young man living in Port Coquitlam, BC. He was athletic and enjoyed running and basketball. When he was 19, they discovered he had a cancerous tumour and his right leg was amputated at the knee. With an artificial leg, he began running again and played wheelchair basketball.
On April 12, 1980, Terry began the Marathon of Hope, a cross-country run to raise money for cancer research. He hoped to raise one dollar from each of Canada's 24 million people. He began in St. John's, NF, in April and ran the equivalent of a full marathon every day. On September 1, 1980, he was forced to end his run outside Thunder Bay because the cancer had spread to his lungs. He headed home to BC immediately to begin treatment and passed away in June 1981.
This book has 40 letters from Canadians (some knew him and some didn't) telling what Terry meant to them including Hayley Wickenheiser, Tom Cochrane, Darryl Sittler, Shawn Ashmore, Doug Alward, Nadine Caron, Douglas Coupland, Rick Hansen, Sidney Crosby, Akshay Grover, Lloyd Robertson, Bret Hart, Leslie Scrivener, Isadore Sharp, Wayne Gretzky, Jim Pattison, Catriona Le May Doan, Malindi Elmore, Michael Bublé, Silken Laumann and Steve Nash.
I was 17, in grade twelve and living in Sydney, Nova Scotia, when Terry started his Marathon of Hope. Though he came through Sydney in the beginning of May after making his way through Newfoundland, I don't have any recollection of that, which I think is strange and sad considering what a big deal it is ... but it didn't really start picking up steam until he got out of the Maritimes.
One of Terry's earliest supporters was Isadore Sharp, founder of the Four Seasons Hotels, who proposed an annual fundraising run in Terry's name. Terry agreed but insisted that the runs be non-competitive. The first Terry Fox Run was on on September 13, 1981 ... over 300,000 people took part and raised $3.5 million. The Run has grown to involve millions of participants in over 60 countries and is now the world's largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research ... about $800 million has been raised.
Though the run is virtual this year because of Covid, it's still on! This is my third year as a volunteer/organizer of our local one.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2020/09...
On April 12, 1980, Terry began the Marathon of Hope, a cross-country run to raise money for cancer research. He hoped to raise one dollar from each of Canada's 24 million people. He began in St. John's, NF, in April and ran the equivalent of a full marathon every day. On September 1, 1980, he was forced to end his run outside Thunder Bay because the cancer had spread to his lungs. He headed home to BC immediately to begin treatment and passed away in June 1981.
This book has 40 letters from Canadians (some knew him and some didn't) telling what Terry meant to them including Hayley Wickenheiser, Tom Cochrane, Darryl Sittler, Shawn Ashmore, Doug Alward, Nadine Caron, Douglas Coupland, Rick Hansen, Sidney Crosby, Akshay Grover, Lloyd Robertson, Bret Hart, Leslie Scrivener, Isadore Sharp, Wayne Gretzky, Jim Pattison, Catriona Le May Doan, Malindi Elmore, Michael Bublé, Silken Laumann and Steve Nash.
I was 17, in grade twelve and living in Sydney, Nova Scotia, when Terry started his Marathon of Hope. Though he came through Sydney in the beginning of May after making his way through Newfoundland, I don't have any recollection of that, which I think is strange and sad considering what a big deal it is ... but it didn't really start picking up steam until he got out of the Maritimes.
One of Terry's earliest supporters was Isadore Sharp, founder of the Four Seasons Hotels, who proposed an annual fundraising run in Terry's name. Terry agreed but insisted that the runs be non-competitive. The first Terry Fox Run was on on September 13, 1981 ... over 300,000 people took part and raised $3.5 million. The Run has grown to involve millions of participants in over 60 countries and is now the world's largest one-day fundraiser for cancer research ... about $800 million has been raised.
Though the run is virtual this year because of Covid, it's still on! This is my third year as a volunteer/organizer of our local one.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2020/09...
January 8, 2023
“One step, stride, hurdle at a time.”
This book is a compilation of memories, letters and stories expressing what Terry Fox means to Canadians far and wide. They’re from famous names like Bobby Orr, Haley Wickenheiser and Rick Hansen then from everyday people who have a connection with Terry through their own experiences and battles. It’s through these accounts that you realize Terry’s legacy and how far reaching it is.
“The Canadian Cancer society was doubtful about sponsoring him. He was told to go away and get some backers. To their surprise he gained support from big name corporations.”
“His doctor told him his heart may not withstand the rigours of long, daily runs and didn’t want him to go. If Terry showed any signs of dizziness or shortness of breath, he was to stop. Terry ignored that advice too. He had already experienced those symptoms, but he kept that to himself.”
“Later, when he was running through the Maritimes, the Canadian Cancer society ordered him to have a medical checkup. He refused.”
And so it went. A young man doing what he had to do.
What drove him? As a teenager undergoing cancer treatment, he had listened as doctors told children they had a 15% of living, and he heard their pleas for help. “I had to do something about it.”
At the end of the book is a copy of a letter Terry sent to the BC Cancer Society asking for support. It ends with this…
“We need your help. The people in cancer clinics all over the world need people who believe in miracles. I’m not a dreamer, and I’m not saying that this will initiate any kind of definitive answer or cure cancer, but I believe in miracles. I have to.”
This book moved me like no other. 5/5
This book is a compilation of memories, letters and stories expressing what Terry Fox means to Canadians far and wide. They’re from famous names like Bobby Orr, Haley Wickenheiser and Rick Hansen then from everyday people who have a connection with Terry through their own experiences and battles. It’s through these accounts that you realize Terry’s legacy and how far reaching it is.
“The Canadian Cancer society was doubtful about sponsoring him. He was told to go away and get some backers. To their surprise he gained support from big name corporations.”
“His doctor told him his heart may not withstand the rigours of long, daily runs and didn’t want him to go. If Terry showed any signs of dizziness or shortness of breath, he was to stop. Terry ignored that advice too. He had already experienced those symptoms, but he kept that to himself.”
“Later, when he was running through the Maritimes, the Canadian Cancer society ordered him to have a medical checkup. He refused.”
And so it went. A young man doing what he had to do.
What drove him? As a teenager undergoing cancer treatment, he had listened as doctors told children they had a 15% of living, and he heard their pleas for help. “I had to do something about it.”
At the end of the book is a copy of a letter Terry sent to the BC Cancer Society asking for support. It ends with this…
“We need your help. The people in cancer clinics all over the world need people who believe in miracles. I’m not a dreamer, and I’m not saying that this will initiate any kind of definitive answer or cure cancer, but I believe in miracles. I have to.”
This book moved me like no other. 5/5
November 2, 2020
An amazing collection of stories. This is a must read.
April 12, 2021
Every Canadian should read this book! Great that so many contributed their thoughts and inspiration. Terry Fox has always been a hero of mine an I am so grateful to hear so many great stories from others.
July 13, 2021
Wish I can give it more stars. Thoughtful stories of what a real hero is. Cried thru many stories as many memories of that time flood back. A true inspiration!!!
September 24, 2020
I requested and received an e-ARC of this book from Darrell Fox (editor) and Viking through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book was filled with incredibly touching letters from everyday people, famous athletes, authors, musicians, family and friends whose lives were forever changed by Terry Fox. I cried throughout this book as I read these letters. The letter from Anna Solnickova was incredibly moving as her story and Terry's are so similar, I had to stop reading the book for the rest of the day. The letters from Mary Hardisty, Darryl Sittler, Rick Hansen, Silken Laumann, Debbie Laurie, and Doug Allward had me running to the kitchen for more tissues, but the telegram from Isadore Sharps to Terry, whew that one was hard to read.
I loved reading this book and highly recommend it to everyone. Terry Fox was an amazing young man who deserves to be remembered for generations to come. Happy 40th Anniversary to Terry's dream and the amazing accomplishments he achieved.
This book was filled with incredibly touching letters from everyday people, famous athletes, authors, musicians, family and friends whose lives were forever changed by Terry Fox. I cried throughout this book as I read these letters. The letter from Anna Solnickova was incredibly moving as her story and Terry's are so similar, I had to stop reading the book for the rest of the day. The letters from Mary Hardisty, Darryl Sittler, Rick Hansen, Silken Laumann, Debbie Laurie, and Doug Allward had me running to the kitchen for more tissues, but the telegram from Isadore Sharps to Terry, whew that one was hard to read.
I loved reading this book and highly recommend it to everyone. Terry Fox was an amazing young man who deserves to be remembered for generations to come. Happy 40th Anniversary to Terry's dream and the amazing accomplishments he achieved.
October 10, 2020
Impressive list of well-known Canadians contributed brief thoughts about Terry Fox and his legacy. A good reminder of the impact that he had and continues to have. As a book, the brief thoughts of many didn't give as much depth as I was hoping for.
January 30, 2021
The perfect book to read during a pandemic. Terry Fox was, simply, a hero in the truest sense of the meaning: brave, courageous, doing good for the greater good, for all of us in the future, for everyone afflicted with a life, or death, of cancer. He ran to bring attention and raise one single dollar from every Canadian in 1980 to go towards cancer research. He was a cancer survivor. He was immensely young, 22. He ran a marathon each day of his across Canada run that ended, sadly, in Thunder Bay; Terry's cancer had returned. He vowed to beat it and come back to finish. We know the ending.
I dare you to read this book without wanting to burst into tears from reading each moving letter from athletes, volunteers, celebrities, regular folk, some who knew Terry, most did not but had been affected by his story, knew exactly where they were when he started his run (we all did, his fellow Canadians), knew that Terry was the real deal. His name and cause lives on, hence this celebratory book marking 40 years of his legacy: The Terry Fox Foundation is a force for good. Simply astounding, remarkable, humbling.
We've all been touched by cancer in some way, a family member, a child, a friend, your friend's mom, and the list goes on. It's a wicked thing but what Terry has instilled in us: hope.
I marked so many pages in this book, so much stood out for me and touched my heart. From Bobby Orr's letter, note this: 'We take a lot for granted. The everyday act of getting up in the morning, pulling on our socks, and slipping into a pair of shoes is no big deal for most people. We forget how fortunate we are in many respects. Terry's run shone a timely spotlight on how our needs may differ from others' and on those people who find many of the mundane tasks of living a very big deal indeed.' page 23
Terry ran on one good leg, his left. He had a stump and primitive artificial leg (1979) on his right. He ran with the same sock, shorts and t shirt every day, up at 4 or 5 a.m. starting at the same spot he finished up the day before. He ran gobs of miles each day, not for himself, not to prove a point, but for cancer. Terry Fox: goodness and selflessness personified.
I dare you to read this book without wanting to burst into tears from reading each moving letter from athletes, volunteers, celebrities, regular folk, some who knew Terry, most did not but had been affected by his story, knew exactly where they were when he started his run (we all did, his fellow Canadians), knew that Terry was the real deal. His name and cause lives on, hence this celebratory book marking 40 years of his legacy: The Terry Fox Foundation is a force for good. Simply astounding, remarkable, humbling.
We've all been touched by cancer in some way, a family member, a child, a friend, your friend's mom, and the list goes on. It's a wicked thing but what Terry has instilled in us: hope.
I marked so many pages in this book, so much stood out for me and touched my heart. From Bobby Orr's letter, note this: 'We take a lot for granted. The everyday act of getting up in the morning, pulling on our socks, and slipping into a pair of shoes is no big deal for most people. We forget how fortunate we are in many respects. Terry's run shone a timely spotlight on how our needs may differ from others' and on those people who find many of the mundane tasks of living a very big deal indeed.' page 23
Terry ran on one good leg, his left. He had a stump and primitive artificial leg (1979) on his right. He ran with the same sock, shorts and t shirt every day, up at 4 or 5 a.m. starting at the same spot he finished up the day before. He ran gobs of miles each day, not for himself, not to prove a point, but for cancer. Terry Fox: goodness and selflessness personified.
September 14, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
Forever Terry, edited by Darrell Fox, is a wonderful tribute to the 40th anniversary of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope. This collection of letters written by many well-known Canadians really demonstrates that his legacy still lives on today. It is an inspiring and heart-felt book that will be loved by those who are familiar with the story of Terry Fox and those who are just learning about this iconic Canadian.
Terry Fox started on his Marathon of Hope when I was in elementary school. While I don’t think that I fully grasped how much Terry endured while on his cross-country run, I remember the images and the feeling of pride that we all had as kids. He is a true Canadian hero that we looked up to and talked about on the playground. It was an era that definitely inspired so many of us and continues to do so until this day. Reading this book reminded me of the importance to keep my head up despite whatever life throws at me. It is especially true of our current realities in the world.
❀ MANY INSPIRATIONAL STORIES
The book starts off with a foreword written by Michael Bublé and I was pleasantly surprised by his moving words. Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical of what he was going to contribute to a book commemorating Terry Fox. Without spoiling his powerful message, I will say that no matter who you are or what you are going through, Terry’s journey is one that will inspire you. There are so many stories like this within the pages of the book.
❀ LOTS OF WELL-KNOWN CANADIANS’ LETTERS
A few of my favourites are from Darrell Fox, Doug Alward, Rick Hansen, Hayley Wickenheiser, Lloyd Robertson, and Bobby Orr. Many of the submissions are from famous athletes who retell stories of meeting Terry or about the way he has inspired them to be their best. Some will make you laugh out loud, others will leave you in tears, but many will inspire and cause you to reflect.
❀ A WONDERFUL GIFT
If you are in the mood for a feel-good book that will leave you with a message of hope, Forever Terry by Darrell Fox is one to add to your fall reading list. It will make a wonderful gift, as it also has quite a few images that tell so much about who Terry was and what he stood for. What’s also fantastic to note is that Penguin Random House Canada will donate all author proceeds to The Terry Fox Foundation.
Forever Terry, edited by Darrell Fox, is a wonderful tribute to the 40th anniversary of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope. This collection of letters written by many well-known Canadians really demonstrates that his legacy still lives on today. It is an inspiring and heart-felt book that will be loved by those who are familiar with the story of Terry Fox and those who are just learning about this iconic Canadian.
Terry Fox started on his Marathon of Hope when I was in elementary school. While I don’t think that I fully grasped how much Terry endured while on his cross-country run, I remember the images and the feeling of pride that we all had as kids. He is a true Canadian hero that we looked up to and talked about on the playground. It was an era that definitely inspired so many of us and continues to do so until this day. Reading this book reminded me of the importance to keep my head up despite whatever life throws at me. It is especially true of our current realities in the world.
❀ MANY INSPIRATIONAL STORIES
The book starts off with a foreword written by Michael Bublé and I was pleasantly surprised by his moving words. Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical of what he was going to contribute to a book commemorating Terry Fox. Without spoiling his powerful message, I will say that no matter who you are or what you are going through, Terry’s journey is one that will inspire you. There are so many stories like this within the pages of the book.
❀ LOTS OF WELL-KNOWN CANADIANS’ LETTERS
A few of my favourites are from Darrell Fox, Doug Alward, Rick Hansen, Hayley Wickenheiser, Lloyd Robertson, and Bobby Orr. Many of the submissions are from famous athletes who retell stories of meeting Terry or about the way he has inspired them to be their best. Some will make you laugh out loud, others will leave you in tears, but many will inspire and cause you to reflect.
❀ A WONDERFUL GIFT
If you are in the mood for a feel-good book that will leave you with a message of hope, Forever Terry by Darrell Fox is one to add to your fall reading list. It will make a wonderful gift, as it also has quite a few images that tell so much about who Terry was and what he stood for. What’s also fantastic to note is that Penguin Random House Canada will donate all author proceeds to The Terry Fox Foundation.
September 29, 2020
If you're a Canadian, you know who Terry Fox is. If you're not a Canadian, you NEED to know who Terry Fox is. Terry lost his right leg to cancer in his late teens, and in 1980, at age 21, after months of training, embarked on a mission to run across Canada on one good leg and one artificial leg to raise money for cancer research. His run ended 2/3 of the way across the country in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where it was discovered that the cancer had returned to his lungs this time. Terry died a year later, having never finished his run. But for the last 40 years Canadians and others have taken up Terry's cause, raising over $800 million for cancer research, primarily through Terry Fox Run fundraisers. This book, edited by Terry's brother Darrell to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Terry's Marathon of Hope, is a compilation of short chapters written by 40 Canadians. Some are famous (Bobby Orr, Margaret Atwood, Tom Cochrane), others are unknown Canadians who have been impacted by cancer and by Terry's example. Some are old enough to remember the run and even meet Terry personally, others are under 40 years old yet have been influenced by the heroism of Terry's run and the strength of his character. Each chapter is compelling in its own unique way. Some will bring tears to the eyes. Others a smile to your face. Others will leave words of inspiration embedded in your heart. Through this book, the incredible story of Terry Fox is brought to the forefront once again. I read the entire book in one day. I could not put it down. Read this book, and be inspired by a real-life hero.
October 9, 2023
While there's nothing wrong with reading a series of letters, I'm usually not easily drawn in to read them. But this particular set demonstrates the social and cultural significance of one man and how that has continued over the last 40 years.
Terry Fox's legacy continues to shine as 40 letters highlight the weight and nature of his fantastic journey. It is cool to see how many people have been influenced by Terry whether they knew him, met him or were even around when he was alive. These letters continuously point to the magnitude of what he accomplished, and how the work that he started continues to impact millions of people. This is a heartfelt reminder and love 'letter' to everything Terry Fox and what he represents for every Canadian.
Terry Fox's legacy continues to shine as 40 letters highlight the weight and nature of his fantastic journey. It is cool to see how many people have been influenced by Terry whether they knew him, met him or were even around when he was alive. These letters continuously point to the magnitude of what he accomplished, and how the work that he started continues to impact millions of people. This is a heartfelt reminder and love 'letter' to everything Terry Fox and what he represents for every Canadian.
January 31, 2021
This book was one giant love letter of gratitude to Terry Fox on the 40th Anniversary of his Marathon of Hope.
Being Canadian, I know the Terry Fox story and legacy he created. Through the letters and essays written by Canadians in this book, you learn learn just how deeply he has touched the entire nation, and continues to do so year after year.
In 2018 I visited the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout in Thunder Bay. It overlooks the spot on Highway 17 where the Marathon of Hope stopped. I will never forget the emotion that filled me as I looked at Terry’s statue and watched the traffic in the highway below.
Being Canadian, I know the Terry Fox story and legacy he created. Through the letters and essays written by Canadians in this book, you learn learn just how deeply he has touched the entire nation, and continues to do so year after year.
In 2018 I visited the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout in Thunder Bay. It overlooks the spot on Highway 17 where the Marathon of Hope stopped. I will never forget the emotion that filled me as I looked at Terry’s statue and watched the traffic in the highway below.
October 26, 2020
How can you not adore a book about one of the most beloved and cherished Canadians to this day? Terry Fox is a legend, and I'm personally constantly reminded of this fact since I live nearby Terry Fox way in my city. I loved reading about the small and big impacts both made on Canadians nationwide, and am pleased to know that this book only scratches the surface of Terry's impact. 100% Terry should be put on one of our currency bills, I would love to see that. Overall, fantastic, heartfelt, Canadian read.
November 1, 2021
A beautiful collection of letters attributing to the beautiful man Terry Fox was. This book makes me proud to be Canadian and proud to have Terry as a hero of perseverance, strength and commitment. This was the first Terry Fox book I've read as an adult, and although I don't have children yet as I was reading through these letters I thought how inspiring it will to be able to tell my children one day that all of these people were touched by Terry's legacy even 40 years after the marathon of hope. Beautiful short stories of inspiration and determination. A very inspiring read!
January 1, 2022
Terry Fox has been my hero since his Marathon of Hope in 1980. As a child, I admired that someone would attempt to run across Canada, especially with a prosthetic leg. I remember seeing Terry on the news and thinking how selfless he was. I wrote an essay about him and why he was my hero. It is one item from my childhood that I wish I still had in my possession. I wonder exactly what 10 or 11 year-old me said about him at the time!
The various contributions to this book portray what an absolutely wonderful person Terry was. He had an enormous heart and an even larger will.
The various contributions to this book portray what an absolutely wonderful person Terry was. He had an enormous heart and an even larger will.
September 14, 2023
An inspiring collection of stories from forty well known Canadians and others reflecting on Terry Fox legacy on the 40th anniversary of his Marathon of Hope. An exceptional young man, Terry’s determination to find a cure for cancer and his family’s goal to continue Terry’s dream in his memory. Today, The Terry Fox Run is an annual event that has raised over $800 million for cancer research in the last forty years. Terry Fox is a truly inspiring individual who is beloved and held in high esteem from across Canada and beyond.
December 28, 2020
I can’t give a book about our Canadian national hero Terry Fox anything less than five stars.
While I might have wished for more letters from the people who actually knew Terry and experienced his journey (or better written letters from those who didn’t) I understand what they were trying to do with this book to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope.
Terry Fox was an incredible human being....
While I might have wished for more letters from the people who actually knew Terry and experienced his journey (or better written letters from those who didn’t) I understand what they were trying to do with this book to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope.
Terry Fox was an incredible human being....
January 1, 2022
Terry Fox is such an inspiration to me, and his annual run is a big part of our family tradition. This book contains the thoughts of many distinguished people on Terry Fox and his legacy. Some contributions are more enjoyable to read than others, but overall I learned a lot about Terry Fox and the breadth of his impact on Canada and the world. It was an inspirational way to end the year and accomplish my reading goal for 2021.
November 23, 2020
Great read! Brings back a lot of souvenirs as I followed Terry's progress as a kid in 1980. So many people he touched, influenced and helped save thru the ongoing fund collection and research into cancer. A humble boy, a GREAT Canadian! Thank you to his family and all those who elp keep his dream alive.
January 12, 2021
The legacy does indeed live on in the form of letters about Terry from people who've met him, been influenced by him, emulated him, suffered like him. Inspirational, positive, influential - everything that he would have wanted in a tribute, I am sure. Some famous names, some ordinary folk. For a more detailed review, check my book review blog at ScuffedGranny.
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