Terry Fox Run KL raises more than a million for cancer research in CARIF, 2003-present
The Terry Fox Run, named after the young man who inspired these events, has been held in KL for the last 18 years in Kuala Lumpur and has attracted thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life. Terry Fox was 18 years old when he was diagnosed with bone cancer. His right leg was amputated above the knee. Whilst in hospital, Terry was so moved by the suffering of cancer patients, especially children and this inspired him to run across Canada (a distance of 8,500 kilometres) to raise money and awareness for cancer research. He called his journey the “Marathon of Hope”. With courage and determination, he ran 42 kilometres a day for 143 consecutive days covering a total of 5,373 kilometres. Terry was forced to abandon his run as the cancer spread to his lungs and he eventually passed away at the age of 21.
To commemorate his brave attempt, a Canadian entrepreneur, Isadore Sharp decided to organise a run that carried the same mission as the Marathon of Hope – to raise funds for the purpose of finding a cure for cancer.
Since the first Terry Fox Run in 1981, more than RM1.3 billion has been raised. More than 2 million runners participate each year around the world, in aid of cancer research. The Kuala Lumpur edition of the event started in 2001, attracted participants of all ages and has raised over RM1 million.
The event itself has grown and now encompasses side event such as charity auction conducted at the launch of the run. The run also attracts the support of celebrities such as Ida Nerina and the ever popular Datuk Yasmin Yusuf and is supported by an increasing number of caring corporate citizens.
Since 2003, CARIF has been the sole beneficiary of the Terry Fox Run Kuala Lumpur, receiving RM1,279,104.40. In 2010 alone, CARIF received RM220,758.95. All proceeds from the run are used in research programmes to improve cancer screening, to find new cures, to engage the public and patients in cancer awareness programmes and to advocate cancer-related issues.
For more exciting details about the Run and fun pictures of supporters, please click on the articles below.
In 2011, the Run attacted over 8,000 people came together to show their commitment in the fight against cancer at the Padang Merbok on 13 November 2011. The run was flagged off by H.E Randolph Mank, High Commissioner of Canada to Malaysia, with individuals, families and teams from the corporate sector walking, running, skating and cycling around the scenic 3.5 kilometre ‘family’ and 5 kilometre ‘advanced’ routes.
