Some of you might have read or heard of the reasons I was inspired to volunteer for the Terry Fox Run in Penticton. My son and best friend, Doug, passed away in September 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer for five years. Recently, Jack Layton succumbed to cancer, and in his letter to Canadians said to live with a loving, caring, enthusiastic attitude and never give up the fight against cancer. These are like Terry Fox’s thoughts, and he walked the walk under trying conditions. When his life ended, his mother Betty travelled Canada coast to coast and passed her son’s message to walk for cancer research so those with cancer can lead a better life. Especially, young people were told, “Never ever give up on your dreams.”
I met with a friendly kind soul who has selflessly organized the Terry Fox Run in Penticton for five years and was motivated by her family who had fought cancer and all recovered with the assistance of cancer research. Although she spoke of improvements made and details of a successful run, it was always about volunteers, community and Terry Fox and his family. Katharine, your contributions and soul work will not be forgotten and thank you very much for keeping the faith of Terry’s dream in Penticton. Job well done.
My thanks to our community of volunteers, for the City of Penticton, Penticton Indian Band and all sponsors for your generous support. The run would not get off the ground without you. Great job. I enjoyed meeting you and hope to meet many more before next September.
To the Penticton media, thank you for your coverage before and after the run. Of course, to all the runners and their work to collect pledges in the community: this is a community effort and so thanks for making this a caring city.
Thanks to Mayor Dan Ashton and Katherine Lucier for your encouraging remarks, Gillian and Meghen for your beautiful songs and Steve King for announcing our run. I am sorry for those not mentioned, but know that your kindness and support is greatly appreciated in making this our best Terry Fox Run ever.
It has been such a great experience for me and I can’t wait to meet more wonderful souls as the days and weeks go on towards September 2012. Thank you Penticton and district.
With love and gratitude,
Bill Palmer
Penticton