The 39th annual Wingham Terry Fox Run will be held this weekend, as the quest to find a cure for cancer continues in Terry's name.
Wingham resident Dave Read, who has run in 45 Terry Fox Runs including the Wingham ones, says the message and story of hope that Terry inspired is more important than ever, and he hopes it stays that way for future generations.
"I think it resonates hugely and I hope that younger folks will come out. This is n ot just a 'of its time' phenomenon, or at least it shouldn't be," Read stated.
Read, who is himself a cancer survivor, says continuing to fund cancer research is critical. He points out that prostate cancer is a massive concern for men, and men need to take the dangers seriously.
"Guys, after you reach a certain age, please talk to your doctor about the PSA test. One-in-eight Canadian men will be medically diagnosed with prostate cancer," he pointed out.
The PSA or Prostate-Specific Antigen Test, can help detect early signs or stages of prostate cancer that could save a man's life, like it did for Read. Men at 50 or older should ask their doctor about the test, or men 45 and older with a family history of the disease.
"The PSA test could save you life, as it did mine. So for God's sake, when the time comes, or preferably before the time comes, talk to your doctor about the PSA," Read emphasized.
Read says surviving cancer and raising well over $40,000 himself is a real blessing, and he's glad to still be honouring Terry's legacy.
"I'm just one of a great number, and I'm so grateful that I can still do it. Number 45 and I'm really hoping this Sunday will not be last because I want to keep doing this for as long as I can," Read said proudly.
Read says the Wingham community is incredibly special and it is very gratifying to see it continue to come together for a great cause. He adds that continuing to fun cancer research worldwide is incredibly important, because when breakthroughs are made, word spreads and it helps everyone around the globe.
Over the past 38 years, Wingham's Terry Fox Run has raised $713,955.45 towards cancer research, funded through the Terry Fox Foundation. The event in Wingham had its best year so far last year, reaching $39,089 raised and 270 participants in 2025.
"Wingham has always punched above it’s weight for the Terry Fox Foundation. We are continually in the top 10 Terry Fox Run’s in Ontario in per capita fundraising. Every year, I am proud of our community for showing it cares about each other, and cancer research," shared Scott Miller, Co-Organizer of the Wingham Terry Fox Run.
The other Co-Organizer is Steve Jackson. Both Steve and Miller are testicular cancer survivors. Participants who are survivors wear red shirts as a symbol of unity, resilience and hope on race day.
If you can't run in the event, consider sponsoring a participant or donating at run.terryfox.ca.
