Yes, Terry Fox did run in Prince Edward Island (PEI) as part of his monumental Marathon of Hope.
Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope in PEI
Terry Fox's inspirational cross-Canada run, known as the Marathon of Hope, reached Prince Edward Island in 1980. This significant leg of his journey saw him continue his daily marathon-equivalent distances despite the immense challenges posed by his prosthetic leg and underlying health issues. His presence in PEI captivated the local communities, who rallied to support his cause for cancer research.
On May 25, 1980, Fox was already pushing through the island's landscape. A personal journal entry from that day reflects his dedication and resilience, noting, "Today, I made it out of bed again at 4:30 am. Boy, was it a beautiful morning." This entry highlights the early starts and challenging conditions he faced daily, regardless of the province he was running through.
The Significance of the PEI Leg
Terry Fox started his Marathon of Hope on April 12, 1980, in St. John's, Newfoundland, with the ambitious goal of running across Canada to raise money for cancer research. His journey through the Maritime provinces, including PEI, was a crucial phase, demonstrating his unwavering commitment as he moved westward.
Key aspects of his time in PEI and the Maritimes include:
- Public Support: Communities across PEI embraced Fox, offering donations and moral support, further amplifying the message of hope and perseverance.
- Media Attention: The Marathon of Hope gained increasing media attention as he progressed, raising national awareness for cancer research.
- Symbol of Hope: Fox's determination in running an average of 42 kilometers (26 miles) a day, a full marathon distance, became a powerful symbol of courage and resilience for Canadians and the world.
His passage through Prince Edward Island underscored the national scope of his mission and the widespread impact he had on Canadians from coast to coast. Though his run tragically ended in Northern Ontario on September 1, 1980, after 143 days and 5,373 kilometers, the legacy of his Marathon of Hope, including his time in PEI, continues to inspire millions globally.
For more information on Terry Fox's incredible journey, you can visit the Terry Fox Foundation website.
