The Terry Fox Run has been gaining momentum in Yorkton, and the 2014 event saw the initiative grow even more.
This year's goal was to raise $10,000 for cancer research, and organizer Nadine Frisk says that the run made over double that amount, bringing in over $20,000. This makes it one of the best runs in the city's history.
Frisk says it has been a powerful experience to see the community rally behind the Terry Fox Run. She says that the support of businesses as well as an increased presence on social media has made it possible to connect with more people who are passionate about the run and the cause of cancer research. She says volunteers getting the word out and getting support in the community were one of the reasons why the 2014 was such a big success.
"There was a bustle around Yorkton because people were talking about it, and that is exactly what we wanted to have happen."
Business involvement in the event was also a big part of its success, Frisk says, with many corporate sponsors like the Cornerstone Credit Union with their gourmet hot dog sale, which raised over $2,000. Sharon Kawa, Marketing Assistant at Cornerstone Credit Union says that the credit union used to host the event, and they want to stay involved with the run and continue to support it. She says other businesses should do what they can to support, whether that means displaying a poster or finding other ways to support
"It's important because of what it is, it raises awareness for cancer research... It's successful, the run is successful and the research is successful. There are more success stories and cancer survivors."
Farrell Agencies demonstrated another way businesses can get involved, entering a team of 37 people into the event. Suzanne Percival says that the team raised $602 overall. She also says that they challenge other businesses to do the same for the next event. It's because of events like this she believes that help to build a community. She adds, getting people together for an important cause is something that we should all support.
Next year is the 35th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope, and Frisk says that the committee is already planning how they will mark the anniversary.
"As Terry said, "I just wish people would realize that anything is possible if you try, dreams are possible if you try." We can accomplish his dream of ending the suffering that people experience cancer."
