Terry Fox – Running to the Heart of Canada

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Terry Fox – Running to the Heart of Canada

Edmonton is marking Terry Fox’s heroic Marathon of Hope, by presenting the most comprehensive exhibition ever organized about the run and Terry’s remarkable and continuing legacy.

Terry Fox – Running to the Heart of Canada opens at the science centre on February 16, 2018 and provides an in-depth look at Terry’s epic 143 day journey, across 5,373 kilometres, from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to Thunder Bay, Ontario. It explores the deep and abiding affection Canadians have for Terry Fox and examines his unique place in our collective memory.

Developed by the Canadian Museum of History, in partnership with Terry Fox’s family, the exhibition features a wide array of artifacts and archival materials, displayed together publicly for the first time.

Among these treasured items are Terry’s journal and artificial leg, as well as press clippings and media interviews.

“During the Marathon of Hope and the months that followed, Canadians filled our home in Port Coquitlam, B.C., with scrapbooks, written tributes and gifts reflecting a collective compassion and admiration for Terry's unselfish act,” said Darrell Fox, Terry’s brother. “More than 35 years later, it was time to share the Terry Fox collection and the compelling story that the memorabilia evoke with the world."

The Marathon of Hope began with little fanfare on April 12, 1980 when Terry dipped his prosthetic leg into the Atlantic Ocean at St. John’s, Newfoundland, and began his grueling marathon-a-day, cross-country run to raise money for cancer research. His determination, courage and integrity soon drew the attention — and won the hearts — of Canadians from coast-to-coast. Terry’s journey ultimately ended near Thunder Bay, Ontario, when the cancer returned and forced Terry to abandon the project.

Terry Fox died a national hero at age 22 in June of 1981. While Terry may have had to cut the Marathon of Hope short, he raised $24 million – achieving his goal of raising $1 from every Canadian. To date, more than $700 million has been raised in Terry’s name, in support of cancer research.

Terry Fox – Running to the Heart of Canada is being presented at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton from February 16, 2018 to September 16, 2018. This exhibition is organized by the Canadian Museum of History in partnership with the Terry Fox Centre. It was first presented at the Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau, Quebec from April 2, 2015 to January 3, 2016.

“Terry Fox inspired a nation and his legacy continues to influence adults and children alike,” said Alan Nursall, President and CEO of TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. “This exhibition brings his story to life, and showcases the tremendous impact Terry Fox fundraisers have had on medical science, all over the world. We’re proud to share such an important part of Canadian history with Edmontonians and Albertans.”

A travelling exhibition developed by the Canadian Museum of History, in partnership with the Terry Fox Centre.

Source: Telus World of Science