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Today in History: Terry Fox begins historic Marathon of Hope for cancer

4/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 12, 1980, Canadian athlete Terry Fox began his "Marathon of Hope" in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Despite having a prosthetic leg due to cancer, he aimed to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. His journey inspired millions and led to the creation of the annual Terry Fox Run, raising over C$1 billion for cancer research.

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Story summary

On April 12, 1980, Canadian athlete Terry Fox began his "Marathon of Hope" in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Despite having a prosthetic leg due to cancer, he aimed to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. His journey inspired millions and led to the creation of the annual Terry Fox Run, raising over C$1 billion for cancer research.