COMMUNITY

In a way, Gary reminded all of us that cancer can touch anyone and it’s how you embrace your time and face your fight with grace, faith and courage that counts.

“Our community has rallied beside us right from the start,” said Heidi, who couldn’t express enough her appreciation. Gary passed away this past July after one valiant fight.

“The Terry Fox Run this year will be an emotional one, especially missing my walking partner,” said Heidi, sharing her thoughts with the Paris Independent. “Our family has participated (in the walk) since our kids were young, fundraising to raise money, as I myself was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 1998.”

Heidi admits she very much-admired Terry Fox for his determination, running with such force and fight, the same mentality she witness from her soul mate through his battle, their likeness was evident

Heidi and Gary Wright at the 2022 Paris Terry Fox Run in Paris. This year Heidi will be walking in memory of Gary, who passed away in July. Anyone walking with Team Gary will receive a special pin Heidi made for the walk.

“Terry and Gary, both redheads and freckles, are admired by many from afar for their resilience to prove to others that you can try to overcome your fears and difficulties and make a difference.” Throughout Gary’s battle, friends and family raised thousands of dollars on several occasions for London Health Sciences and the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.

This year Heidi is asking friends and family to join her during the Paris Walk on Sunday, September 15th . While monetary donations are very much appreciated, for Heidi, it’s the support and comfort she seeks the most. Anyone who joins the walk with the Wrights will be given a Team Gary pin so they can wear it in his memory, undoubtedly with Gary’s presence close by

“I will strive to honour Gary by making him proud that we are continuing the legacy, please join us,” said Heidi.

The Paris Terry Fox Run kicks off at 11 am on Sunday, September 15th at the Pairs District High School. Anyone interested in participating can register online now (here) or at 10 am the day of the walk. If you can’t participate, you can get involved by donating or sponsoring a team or individual. Cruickshank expects to see around 150 participants, noting the local marathon has gained popularity over the last couple of years The route takes walkers, runners, cyclists and even rollerbladers through various north end Paris neighbourhoods, where participants are often encouraged by residents The event is non-competitive and inclusive – everyone is welcome.

“It’s such an inspiring day. Yes, there are tears, as we hear stories of courage from survivors, stories of love from those who are there to honour a loved one but being together, for the same cause, fighting for the same thing, is a feeling that we all need ” Cruickshank concluded, “Terry was not a quitter, he just ran out of time. All of us are the time that Terry didn’t have ”