The Terry Fox Foundation flag is flying in Chilliwack this week, as a reminder to support the upcoming run.
Rolly and Janet Fox were on hand for a special flag raising ceremony on Tuesday morning, along with Mayor Sharon Gaetz and run organizer Desmond Devnich.
"I honestly hope this is the last year we have to raise this flag," Gaetz said. "I hope they find a cure for cancer."
This year marks the 35th anniversary of Terry Fox's Marathon of Hope. Annual runs now take place in 50 different countries and have raised $700 million toward cancer research. The foundation is run by the Fox family, and formerly held headquarters in Chilliwack. But the family is originally from Winnipeg, and that's where Fox said they'll spend this year's event.
"It's where I was born and all my children were born," he said.
Gaetz gave a nod to the lasting mark Terry Fox has made in history.
"We often talk about our children and the legacy they've left behind, and I don't think anyone in Canada has left behind this kind of legacy," she said.
She is urging everyone to consider lacing up their sneakers and heading out to take part on Sunday, Sept. 20 for this year's run.
Devnich is hoping Chilliwack can hit the $20,000 mark this year, about $2,000 more than last year's total.
Runners, walkers, strollers and even dogs on leashes are welcome to join in the run. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Landing Sports Complex on Spadina Avenue. The run will start at 9 a.m. and finish up at 12:30 p.m. There are three options for participants; 10K, 5K or 2K.
Register online by visiting www.terryfox.org. Donations can also be made to the local run through the website.