For Release - September 25, 2009
ST. JOHN’S,
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, SEPTEMBER 25, 2009
–
Mr. Ed Holder, Member of Parliament for London West, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice,
Canada's Environment
Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada,
today commemorated the
national historic significance of Terry Fox with a Historic Sites
and Monuments Board of Canada
plaque where Terry Fox started his “Marathon of Hope” on April
12,1980.
“Canadians are
all very proud of the accomplishments of Terry Fox
and the Government of Canada is honoured to be commemorating him
here in St. John’s where he started his “Marathon of Hope” by
dipping his foot in the Atlantic Ocean,”
said Mr. Holder. “Today, Terry Fox’s efforts
to raise both awareness and money in the
fight against cancer continue to inspire people around the
world.”
The people of Newfoundland and Labrador feel a
special connection with Terry Fox.
When Terry started his “Marathon of Hope” in St. John’s, few
people had heard of his goal of running across Canada to raise
awareness and funds. A small group of people gathered to see him off
on his extraordinary journey. Since then the legacy of Terry Fox has
grown every year, and today, hundreds of people celebrate September
25th during the Terry Fox School Run Day, an annual event
In Newfoundland and Labrador.
Terry Fox is a
person of national historic significance
for his outstanding feat of athleticism, his highly personal and
inspirational humanitarian and philanthropic purpose, and as an
enduring Canadian icon.
"Our family is proud to know that Terry is being recognized with a
plaque by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. Terry
wanted to set an example that would never be forgotten. It's been 29
years since Terry ran the Marathon of Hope, and to know he is seen
as someone who has left a significant mark on Canadian history, it's
clear that the example he set hasn't been forgotten by Canadians,"
said Terry’s mother, Betty Fox.
“The Government of Canada is committed to honouring Canadians who
have contributed to making our country great, and looks to every
opportunity to enhance the profile of our cultural heritage in the
mind of Canadians,” said
Minister Prentice.
“Today’s ceremony is one more example of our Government’s commitment
to recognize significant people, places and events of Canada.”
Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic
sites that commemorate persons, places and events that have shaped
Canada’s history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real
and inspiring discovery. Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada’s
historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the
enjoyment, education, appreciation and inspired discovery of all
Canadians, today and in the future.
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