Terry Fox

Overcast clouds hung in the sky, but it was not cold. Mill Bay road was sprinkled with the smell of sea salt air, reminding us of the close presence of the Pacific Ocean. It was 35 years ago that Terry Fox set out from the east coast of Canada hoping to reach the Pacific, raising money for cancer research the whole way. This past Sunday, September 13th, Ms. Hall invited all the students, staff, faculty, and their families to participate in Brentwood’s annual Terry Fox Run. 2015 marks the 35th year that the Marathon of Hope has been going on in Terry Fox’s memory and honour. In her assembly speech, Ms. Hall reminded us that “each one of you has probably—in some way— been affected by cancer”, which I know, at least for me, is all too true. Ms. Hall also pointed out that the reason “this run thrived for the past 35 years [is] because of the dedication of John Garvey”. His unfailing commitment to this event has certainly not gone unnoticed. Every person who has attended this run, I’m sure, has a deep appreciation for the sheer passion Mr. Garvey has for this event. With his retirement, Ms. Hall says that she can “feel how big” the shoes are that she has to fill. With the option of walking, running, or cycling, the Brentwood community set off along scenic Mill Bay Road at high noon. Alone, in pairs, or in groups, every single person was participating.   Some, such as Michael G, Privett ’17 wore large smiles on their faces, enjoying the fresh air.  Others, like Nessa C, Allard ’16 preferred to run with a more stoic expression, perhaps deep in thought. A distinct feeling of purpose pulsed through the air as everyone adventured down the road, Terry Fox and his dream of a cancer-free world occupying their minds. The original goal in 1980 was to raise $1 for each Canadian at the time—$24 million— to go towards cancer research. That original goal has been fulfilled over 25 times. Over $600 million has been raised in Terry’s name, a truly inspiring feat. One Terry Fox Run has now been holstered under Ms. Hall’s belt, an extremely successful one at that. Thanks to her inspiring speech and supreme organizational skills, Brentwood’s 2015 Terry Fox Run was certainly an enjoyable, memorable, and productive one. Jaclyn C, Alex ‘16