On Friday, September 25, nearly 100 students at Greater Fort Erie Secondary School took part in the school’s annual Terry Fox Walk hosted by the Athletic Council. The event brought the GFESS community together to honour Terry Fox and his goal of raising awareness and money for cancer research. More than $1,400 was raised in donations.
Students walked along the Friendship Trail with their classmates, giving everyone a chance to get outside and participate. The walk also gave students an opportunity to remember Terry Fox and the impact he has had on Canadians.
The spirit of leadership and community pride was clear throughout the day, as organizers shared how deeply personal this cause is to the student body.
"I really love running the Terry Fox walk every year," said Athletic Council Prime Minister Sienna Mendes. "This event not only helps raise money to go towards cancer research, but it gets people involved in our school community. I unfortunately was never able to meet my grandpa on my mom's side of my family due to him passing away from cancer, so that is one reason why I find this event to be very important."
"I loved the overall atmosphere of the day," noted one student participant. "It felt great being out here with everyone, especially knowing that we were all doing it for such a good cause."
After completing the walk, students were greeted with freezies at the end of the trail. The treat was a fun way to cool down and finish the event after spending time walking in the September weather.
The Terry Fox Walk was more than just a school activity. It was a chance for the GFESS community to come together and continue Terry Fox’s legacy of helping others. His Marathon of Hope continues to inspire Canadians to support cancer research and work toward a future without cancer.
By Baron Heaton