The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Twenty-five years is a long time. That's how long Mark Messier lasted in the NHL. Leadership is one of the main things that come up about the 'Moose', but so does longevity. That is what brings up the topic of Terry Fox. Last Sunday was the 25th anniversary of the Terry Fox Run as over 60 Flonners participated in something that has become traditional for Canadians. This run is part of Canadian culture because not only does it support cancer, which affects every Canadian, but the efforts of Terry. Last year Canadians made it known how much he means to them during the CBC show, The Greatest Canadian. Fox finished second behind Tommy Douglas, who is credited as the founding father of public health care. It was great to see the enthusiasm of people at Flinty's Boardwalk. It can be a good feeling to do something for an excellent cause. I know because I have participated once and I will again in the future. Participation isn't the only reason why this event is building incredible longevity. Education and inspiration are others. Jesse Deans, 11, is an example of how kids in school are being informed about the Canadian icon. "We're learning about Terry Fox lots in school," says Deans, who completed five kilometres. "It was fun, we read a few stories and stuff and did runs at school, too." "Certainly an inspiration," says Simeon Priddle, who moved to Flin Flon from New Foundland, about Fox." "Anybody who is either impacted by cancer or any other obstacle they want to overcome in their lifetime, realizing that there is nothing that is insurmountable." Nora Fontaine, who also participated, says Fox is a hero. "When you think back and try and fathom what he did, it's just amazing," Fontaine says. "To think one guy ran a marathon everyday for months, you know, if he can do it, we can all do a little thing like that once a year. "He's a pretty special guy and he gave us all insight and it's important to keep it going." Part of what makes Fox's story so well known is the fact that he died trying to accomplish his goal. In 1984, Steve Fonyo, inspired by Fox as he also lost a leg to cancer, went on his cross-country run to raise money for cancer research. The 19-year-old succeeded and raised over $13 million. I was talking on the phone with a friend about Terry Fox when he brought up Fonyo, whom I had never heard of. Fonyo and other Canadians are the reason why Fox's legend continues and will likely last forever.
