Our mini Marathon of Hope
The morning of Sunday, Sept. 22, members of the Mount Allison community came together at the Wallace McCain Student Centre to participate in the University’s 37th annual Terry Fox Run.
As they arrived, participants who had not already pledged online pledged a donation of at least two dollars to the cause. Participants could run, walk or bike a five- or 10-kilometre route around Sackville, followed by music and refreshments.
The morning started off with a warm-up activity run by Maggie Ivimey, a third-year student and the Health Care Outreach treasurer. “It’s a fun way to start the event,” said Ivimey. “Runners come separately; it brings everyone together.”
Students all had a variety of goals coming into the event. “I’m running to challenge myself, just like I do every day at university,” said Nick Beers, a first-year student and experienced runner who has done a few 10-kilometre runs in the past.
“It’s a good way to start the day, going for a good run. And it helps me study later,” said Corey Brideau, a third-year student who is another experienced runner. Brideau also said that he likes “to show support for the event. I always like to see a good turnout.”
“The run is very important as cancer is so prevalent today. It is very important as we raise awareness and funds for cancer research to support the national Terry Fox Foundation.” said Abby Kelson, a second-year student who co-organized this year’s event. “The best part of organizing this whole event is knowing it’s all going to a great cause! It is such a rewarding feeling, and knowing people are having a good time at the run makes it so enjoyable!”
Running for the cause was a common theme among students. Sam Pickett, a second-year student and first-time runner, said that he was running because “It is a personal goal of mine, and I’m also very fond of Terry Fox and raising money for cancer.”
Terry Fox, whose right leg was amputated due to cancer, became a household name when he ran his Marathon of Hope in 1980. His goal was for every Canadian to donate one dollar towards cancer research. He reached his goal and raised over $20 million before his death in 1981.
Mt. A’s run was organized by Health Care Outreach, which hosts health initiatives throughout the year, including their upcoming Movember event.
