Betty Fox Bio

Betty Fox Bio


In 1977, when her son Terry’s leg was amputated due to osteogenic sarcoma, Betty Fox

had no idea how the experience would change her life. When Terry revealed his plans

to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research, Betty and the family

responded with support and encouragement. Through phone calls, television and

newspaper reports, she followed his every step during the 143 days he ran his

Marathon of Hope.

When cancer spread to Terry’s lungs and it became clear that he would not survive the

disease a second time, Betty found the news very difficult to accept. When he died in

1981 and The Terry Fox Run was established, she was asked to take an active role in

the development of the organization. Although reluctant, she did take on the role of

Honourary Chairman, together with husband Rolly (also an Honourary Chairman),

realizing how important it was that a family member safeguard Terry’s integrity and

principles.

Since that time, Betty has been involved in all aspects of The Terry Fox Foundation,

particularly commercialization issues and protection of Terry’s name and image. She

was honoured to have the opportunity to visit schools, communities and companies

during her bi-annual cross-Canada tours each year to share Terry’s story and inspire

listeners to follow their own dreams. It is estimated that Betty spoke to more than

400,000 school children alone during her 25 years of touring, leaving each and every

child with the inspirational story of the Marathon of Hope. The final words of every

speech, “Never, ever give up on your dreams”, have become her memorable hallmark.

In recent years Betty has vetted many proposals and welcomed opportunities to

enhance Terry’s legacy. The 25th Anniversary year in 2005 introduced new books, a

new movie, and a new fundraising initiative called The National School Run Day, all

made possible under the careful and watchful eye of Betty. With the introduction of

The Terry Fox Research Institute in 2007, together with the Foundation’s impressive

record of fundraising for cancer research, Betty has ensured that Canadian cancer

research continues to forge discoveries and save lives.

In 2010 Betty was honoured to take part in the Vancouver Olympics by acting as a flagbearer

in the opening ceremonies, representing her son Terry in a way only a mother

could. Together with Rolly, she carried the torch into the opening ceremony of the

Paralympic Games, partaking in a breathtaking tribute to Terry and his inspirational

influence on all athletes. Throughout the 30th Anniversary year she continued to take

part in events that honoured Terry, culminating in her participation on Terry Fox Run

Day in Barrington, Nova Scotia, an opportunity for Betty to once again express her

gratitude and appreciation for the magnificent support of Canadians for Terry’s dream.

Betty and Rolly Fox have three other children: Fred, Darrell, and Judith and nine

grandchildren.