Sunlight broke through the rain clouds on the morning of Sunday, Sept. 14, as though it was a sign of a brighter future to come as community members of all ages rallied together at Evans park in North Cowichan to start off their day with 'Finish It': the theme marking the 45th year since Canadian hero Terry Fox embarked on his Marathon of Hope.
The air was filled with both hope and healing. Cancer survivors, those who lost loved ones, as well as those who just wanted to help Terry finish what he started came out for the Sunday morning event. It was heartwarming to see not only so many young people come out with their families but also the 50-plus students from Queen Margaret's School who volunteered in a myriad of capacities from concession, marshalling, and even photography.
Attendees had the opportunity to write on the giant Terry Fox board. Several in attendance wore Terry t-shirts; as well as the names of the loved ones in whose memory they were walking or running. Event organizer for the fourth year running Mark Swannell spoke while recognizing and celebrating all of the team and individual fundraising efforts. This year's event raised over $14,000, exceeding its set goal of $10,000.
Dominica Dorazio, who was the event's guest of honour, really raised the bar as the day prior she ran 45 km in six hours to mark the 45th anniversary of the Terry Fox run. In her speech she said that she felt privileged to be able to feel discomfort during her long run and that all taking part should feel the same as it is nothing compared to what those who battle cancer endure.
The Cowichan Dragon Divas donned pink and raised their paddles for all participants to pass through, making their way across the field toward the Evans Park water tower, then on to the trails for a 2 km jaunt, with the option to repeat it a second or third time.
Dominica and her husband Darin cheered participants on as they made their way to the finish line.
