Join the Terry Fox Run for cancer research at Zagreb’s Jarun on Sept. 20

Zagreb’s Jarun lake will host Croatia’s 27th Terry Fox Run on Sept. 20, as participants continue a campaign that began with one young Canadian’s attempt to run across the country for cancer research.

The event will direct donations to the Ruđer Bošković Institute, which is researching new ways to detect lobular breast cancer early and develop treatments. The race forms part of the global Terry Fox Run, now being held for the 46th year.

Terry Fox was 21 when he began his Marathon of Hope in 1980, after three years of treatment for bone cancer. He ran 5,373 kilometers between April 12 and Sept. 1 before a serious deterioration in his health forced him to stop. He died on June 28, 1981, after inspiring worldwide support for cancer research.

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Terry Fox was only 21 when he began his Marathon of Hope in 1980, after he had already spent three difficult years fighting malignant bone cancer. His brave vision was to run across Canada, and that initiative grew into a global phenomenon that inspired millions of people. Croatia embraced this noble campaign long ago, so this year we will gather in Zagreb for the 27th time. Only through joint efforts can we do good and finish what Terry started. Let’s FINISH IT!

Canadian Ambassador Jessica Blitt said Fox’s effort had grown into a global movement and urged people in Croatia to continue his mission. “Only through joint efforts can we do good and finish what Terry started. Let’s FINISH IT!”

T-shirt sales will begin Sept. 12 at Centar Cvjetni and City Center one East and West, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shirts will cost a minimum donation of 15 euros and will also be available online and on race day. Illeana Cesarec of MPG said research donations help scientists and doctors better understand the disease and develop life-saving therapies. The foundation has raised more than $850 million for cancer research worldwide.

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Terry began the Marathon of Hope with the deep conviction that one day we would complete his journey and win the fight against cancer. That hope still drives us today, and the slogan “Finish it!” best expresses what brings us together in Croatia for the 27th time.