CIHR remembers Betty Fox

It is with great sadness that CIHR marks the passing of Betty Fox at 73.

Betty Fox, a national anti-cancer crusader, died peacefully on June 17, 2011. For more than three decades, Betty's life was dedicated to the fulfillment of her son's - Terry - legacy. In 1977, at the tender age of 18, Terry's leg was amputated due to osteogenic sarcoma - an aggressive form of childhood cancer. The diagnosis did not slow Terry down. Through Terry's Marathon of Hope, he continued his journey with plans to run across Canada in hopes of raising money for cancer research. Betty never left Terry's side through his 143 day journey.

Terry succumbed to his cancer in 1981, but his legacy continues to live on through the Terry Fox Foundation which was established through the support from the annual Terry Fox Run. Betty became the face of the foundation, honoring Terry's name and image. She had the opportunity to present to thousands of students, professionals and individuals sharing Terry's story and inspiring others to pursue their ambitions. Betty ended all of her presentations with "Never, ever give up on your dreams", a trademark for the 400,000+ students she spoke to. Betty Fox will be sorely missed by all.

Our condolences during this difficult time are widely extended to all her family and friends.