Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout: A Tribute to a Canadian Hero

Terry Fox is a Canadian hero. In 1980, he set out to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. He ran for 143 days and 5,342 kilometres (3,339 miles) from St. John's, Newfoundland, to Victoria, British Columbia, before he was forced to stop because of cancer that had spread to his lungs. His "Marathon of Hope" inspired millions of people around the world. Terry Fox's story is the stuff of legend. In 1980, at age 21, he was diagnosed with bone cancer. Terry's right leg was amputated, but he didn't let that deter him. Instead, it fueled his determination to make a difference. His "Marathon of Hope" was a remarkable endeavour to run a marathon daily. Beginning his journey on April 12, 1980, Terry Fox's courage and resolve captured the hearts of Canadians from coast to coast. Tragically, his marathon was cut short after 143 days and 5,373 kilometres near Thunder Bay when cancer spread to his lungs. Terry Fox died on June 28, 1981, but his legacy thrived.

The Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout is in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. It is a nine-foot-tall bronze statue of Terry Fox atop a granite and amethyst base. The statue offers a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant, a natural landmark.

The memorial was dedicated on June 26, 1982, just days before the first anniversary of Terry Fox's death. It was originally located directly along Highway 17, but it was later relocated to a dedicated park overlooking the highway to accommodate the widening of the highway route.

The memorial has been the target of vandalism in the past. In the 1990s, several incidents of littering, amethyst theft, and damage to the statue and washrooms were reported. However, the memorial has since been restored and is now well-maintained.

The Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout is a popular tourist destination. It is a reminder of Terry Fox's courage and determination, inspiring people to continue his fight against cancer. As you stand at the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout, overlooking the serene expanse of Lake Superior, you can't help but be moved by the enduring legacy of this incredible Canadian hero. Terry Fox's story is not just about his courageous run but also about his message of hope and determination in the face of adversity.

If you are ever in Thunder Bay, visit the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout. It is a moving tribute to a Canadian hero.

Here are some additional information about the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout:

• The memorial is open year-round.

• There is a parking lot at the site.

• The memorial is wheelchair accessible.

• There is a visitor information centre at the site.

• The memorial is located at 1000 Highway 11/17, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.

I hope this blog has inspired you to learn more about Terry Fox and his legacy. His story is one of courage, determination, and hope. It is a story that we should all remember.