It has been almost forty years since a young, determined Terry Fox decided to run across Canada to raise awareness for the disease that claimed his leg. Every year, Canadians of all ages honor his memory by raising funds for cancer research.
With a little bit of fanfare and a lot of help from parents, Maple Grove celebrated Terry Fox with a community walk. It was a day filled with families enjoying a sunny day. The students raised close to $2000.
Dorval Elementary had a school wide assembly to “kick off” the Terry Fox Run/Walk where a group of grade six students did a little skit discussing the Terry Fox message. They then circled the gym to recite a pledge.
Grade four teacher Mrs. Fenner felt pride. « I wish we could do this every day! » she said. Student Joseph figured it was the least they could do, « Terry Fox did a gigantic run, so it is good for us to do a run like him ».
« It was fun! Everyone was going at their own pace. Some were running, walking or jogging. It was fun to talk with my friend during the Terry Fox run, » explained a smiling Eva.
« As teachers, we encourage our grade six students to behave with integrity as they are the ambassadors of our school. Every year, our students pledge to be responsible, dependable and respectful. We ask them to lead with honesty, compassion and perseverance much like Terry Fox. He was an athlete who held many qualities in which we hope our students recognize and will emulate, » said one of the organizing teachers, Mrs. Mastrocola.
In all, Dorval Elementary raised almost $500.