Terry Fox's sister honoured at annual event

Dubai: Organisers of the Dubai Terry Fox Committee welcomed Judith Fox-Alder, Terry Fox's sister, at their annual felicitation ceremony held yesterday.

Fox-Alder has been honouring the memory of her brother by sharing his inspirational story with school children for the past 28 years and is currently working as the International Director of the Terry Fox Foundation.

"Since 1991, International Runs have raised over [Canadian] $65 million (Dh239 million). These funds are retained in the host countries to support Terry Fox approved cancer research projects" Judith said.

Dubai Terry Fox Run Chairman, Dave Barette, welcomed over 60 guests to the ceremony and thanked all involved in putting together the 2009 run, held in December.

"Organising an event that attracts thousands of participants is never a simple task. It requires the leadership of the organising committee, involvement of many dedicated volunteers, coverage by the local media, participation of schools and corporations," Barette said.

The 2009 run attracted more than 5,000 participants and raised over Dh300,000 for cancer research, which will be utilised by the UAE University in Al Ain. Doctor Charles Leduc from the university was on hand to receive the donation.To date over Dh6.7 million have been raised in Dubai for cancer research in the UAE.

Further cancer research funds are being raised through two upcoming Terry Fox Runs: the annual Abu Dhabi Terry Fox Run on February 19 at the Abu Dhabi Corniche and on March 5, the inaugural Ras Al Kamiah run will take place at the Ras Al Kamiah Corniche. For more information visit www.terryfox.org.