Terry Fox Biography: Wikipedia, Awards, Age, Net Worth, Height, Death, Parents, Nationality, Ethnicity

Terry Fox was a legendary Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist, whose determination and spirit inspired millions.

Born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Fox’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of 18 when he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.

This diagnosis led to the amputation of his right leg above the knee, but rather than succumbing to despair, Fox became an emblem of hope and resilience.

Profile

• Full name: Terrance Stanley Fox
• Date of birth: July 28, 1958
• Age as of 2025: 67 (deceased)
• Gender: Male
• Place of birth: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
• Nationality: Canadian
• Profession: Athlete, activist
• Height: 1.75 m
• Parents: Betty Fox, Rolly Fox
• Siblings: Three siblings
• Spouse: N/A
• Children: N/A
• Relationship status: N/A
• Religion: N/A
• Ethnicity: N/A
• Net worth: $2 nillion

Early Life and Education

Terry Fox is now posthumously at the age of 67. He was born on July 28, 1958, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. At the age of ten, his family moved to Port Coquitlam, British Columbia. Growing up, he developed a passion for basketball and was determined to make his school team. His perseverance paid off as he eventually became a starting guard.

After completing high school education at Port Coquitlam Secondary School—he enrolled at Simon Fraser University where he studied kinesiology.

In 1977, during his first year at Simon Fraser University, Fox was diagnosed with cancer. The diagnosis led to the amputation of his right leg above the knee. Following surgery and extensive rehabilitation, he learned to walk again using a prosthetic leg.

Personal Life

Terry Fox’s personal life was marked by resilience and determination following his cancer diagnosis. He maintained close relationships with family members throughout his journey; particularly with his mother Betty Fox who became an advocate for cancer research after her son’s passing.

Fox’s commitment to raising awareness about cancer stemmed from witnessing the struggles faced by fellow patients during treatment. His experiences fueled his desire not only to raise funds but also inspire others facing similar challenges.

Career

In April 1980, Terry Fox embarked on his ambitious “Marathon of Hope,” aiming to run across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. He began his journey in St. John’s, Newfoundland, dipping his artificial leg into the Atlantic Ocean as a symbolic start.

Initially met with limited media attention and support, Fox persevered through harsh weather conditions and physical pain while averaging approximately 42 kilometers (about 26 miles) per day.

As he progressed through the Atlantic Provinces and into Quebec and Ontario, public interest in his journey grew exponentially. By the time he reached Ontario in June 1980, he had become a national sensation. Crowds gathered to support him; notable figures such as Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau met him during his run. On July 11, 1980, he arrived in Toronto to a massive welcome from thousands of supporters.

Fox’s goal was to raise one dollar for each of Canada’s then-24 million citizens—totaling $24 million for cancer research. By September 1, 1980, after running for 143 days and covering over 3,339 miles (5,374 kilometers), he was forced to stop just outside Thunder Bay due to chest pains that revealed cancer had spread to his lungs.

Despite undergoing further treatments after halting his run, Terry Fox passed away on June 28, 1981—just one month shy of his 23rd birthday. His efforts raised over $24 million for cancer research and left an enduring legacy that continues today through annual Terry Fox Runs held across Canada and worldwide.

Awards and Recognitions

Terry Fox received numerous honors throughout his life and posthumously:

• Companion of the Order of Canada
• Lou Marsh Award for Canada’s top athlete (1980)
• Named Canada’s Newsmaker of the Year by The Canadian Press (1980 and 1981)
• Inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame
• Numerous schools, parks, roads, and statues named in his honor
• A commemorative postage stamp issued in his name
• Featured on a Canadian one-dollar coin—the first time a Canadian figure appeared on currency

Net worth

Terry Fox bet worth, though not widely publicized is estimated to be around $2 million at the time of his death.

Death

Terry Fox died on June 28, 1981. His passing marked a significant loss for Canada; however, his legacy continues through ongoing fundraising efforts for cancer research.

Social Media

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