Who Are You Running For?

The 41^st Anniversary Terry Fox Run is only two days away. On Sunday, September 19, we may be apart, but we will be united in the spirit of Terry Fox. It is a sad reality that we all know someone who is battling cancer. Statistics from the Canadian Cancer Society indicate that nearly 1 in 2 Canadians (45% of men and 43% of women) are expected to develop cancer during their lifetime. Terry Fox is the face of hope for cancer research nationally and internationally. We can make a difference for those who are faced with the challenge of a cancer diagnosis. Our large Terry Fox honour board is already covered with the names and hearts of those who will be foremost in our minds as we take part in our virtual event this Sunday. Here at KES, we have our own cancer stories. Angela Carmichael, cancer survivor and mom to Ali (Grade 7) and Joe (Grade 11), is an inspiration for our community, and an amazing fundraiser, having raised close to $8,000 already and aiming for $10K! Read Angela’s featured article on saltwire.com.

 

Our student response has been exceptional. Led by our Head Boy, William Ahern, and Head Girl, Gabby Strickey, our Windsor/King’s-Edgehill event is currently leading in provincial fundraising with $20,000 already logged for our Windsor site. From raising community awareness at the Windsor Market to volunteering at a fundraiser last Friday outside the Atlantic Superstore, the Terry Fox story is being told and donations to cancer research are rolling in. Residences are finding creative ways to raise money and our KES swimmers plan to collectively swim 42 km (the marathon distance that Terry Fox ran each day) in our pool this afternoon. Most importantly, every member of our community will take part whether on campus or with their families in their own neighbourhoods.

It is this kind of motivation that makes taking part in the Terry Fox Run on Sunday easy. If you haven’t done so already, register for the 2021 event by clicking on this direct Windsor/King’s-Edgehill link.

All donations are appreciated, and participation is key. It will be a “One Day. Your Way.” event, and I look forward to connecting in spirit with everyone Sunday morning at 11:00 am. Don’t forget to snap a selfie or family picture highlighting your personal Terry Fox event. Photos should be submitted to Monica Schafer, Director of Student Life on Sunday. With over $20,000 raised for our run already, we are off to an amazing start. Thank you for your participation. Together we can outrun cancer!