|
Terry Fox’s heroic battle with cancer, and his determination to run across the country to raise money and awareness for cancer research, resonates not only with Canadians of all ages, but with people world wide. Chris Litke brought Terry’s legacy so much closer to home for 313 students at Duffield School.
 
On Friday, September 24, staff and students from grades K to 9 were expecting to walk and/or run a designated route through the hamlet of Duffield, wearing the hats and armbands they made in honour of Terry Fox and his Marathon of Hope. What they did not expect was to be inspired by a surprise guest, who shared his own story.
Chris Litke, who grew up in Stony Plain, was hit in the knee with a puck while playing hockey. The pain was so bad that his parents took him to the hospital. He was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma, the same cancer that claimed Terry Fox’s life. Chris, at 17 years old, endured 15 months of chemo therapy, and had his leg amputated. As he showed the kids his titanium knee, he lightened the mood by telling them that before he went into surgery, he told the doctor that after he was done, he wanted his knee back – and he got it! Chris shared some stories of losing friends along the way, but he also said “This is not a sad story, I am a survivor,” which brought cheers from the young crowd.
 
After his touching story, Chris donned the hat made for him and led the assembly on their Marathon of Hope. Participants were invited to join Chris for a visit and refreshments after the run.
Thank you to the many volunteers – parents, staff, Parkland Fire Service personnel, and volunteer fire departments - who dedicate their time to ensure the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope is safe and successful, year after year. This year, several schools in the division are continuing Terry Fox’s legacy:
September 15: Stony Plain Central School
September 24: Millgrove School
September 28: Wabamun School
September 29: Parkland Village School
September 30: Entwistle School
September 30: Forest Green School
September 30: Tomahawk School
September 30: Seba Beach School
October 1: Ècole Meridian Heights School
The Parkland School Division welcomes and appreciates all participants and supporters of these annual events to help raise funds for cancer research.
|