Rainbow District School Board Terry Fox events held across the Sudbury region

Throughout September and October, Rainbow District School Board students are putting their feet to the ground supporting the Terry Fox Foundation.

Terry Fox Runs are held annually in communities across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. In Sudbury, Rainbow Schools events have raised almost $1 million over the years.

Cancer survivor Addylin Stacy, 7, and her teacher Laura Young pose for a picture during Queen Elizabeth II Public School’s 20th annual Terry Fox Run on Thursday. (Dan Bertrand/CTV News Northern Ontario)

"We are nearing the $1 million mark," board spokesperson Nicole Charette said in an email to CTV News.

Queen Elizabeth II Public School in Greater Sudbury held its 20th annual Terry Fox Run on Thursday.

Teacher Laure Young said Terry Fox’s story of strength and perseverance continues to inspire the youth of today.

“I think it still resonates for a few reasons," Young said.

"They are always fascinated to see how far he went and how much further he wanted to go. They love to learn about how he had started off on his own and how it became such a big sort of momentous occasion across the country -- how it was one dream and it turned into this big goal that everybody can contribute to."

When she asked her students why it still mattered to them, they told her that "there is still cancer, so we still have to fundraise for a cure."

Kindergarten students at Queen Elizabeth II Public School train ahead of the school’s 20th annual Terry Fox Run on September 26, 2024. (Facebook/ Queen Elizabeth II Public School)Queen Elizabeth II Public School’s Grade 2/3 class enjoys popsicles following the school’s Terry Fox Run on Sept. 26, 2024. (Dan Bertrand/CTV News Northern Ontario)

Young said the event has special meaning to her because she lost her uncle to cancer 17 years ago. To see young people gain hope, courage and reliance would bring him joy.

Addylin Stacey, 7, a student at the school who survived cancer, said it was amazing to have the support of her peers.

'Fun with my friends' 

"It is fun with my friends," Addylin said.

"It’s important for us to do the Terry Fox run because other people still have cancer."

Queen Elizabeth II set a goal to raise $150 for its 200 students.

"We aim for about a loonie per person because that was Terry's original fundraising goal," said Young.

The run itself was a school-wide event held after the second nutrition break. Teachers met their classes outside and they walked around the track located on the school property. Some students walked while others chose to run as music was played outside.

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Students and staff celebrated another successful Terry Fox event with popsicles after the run – a great way to end the week as students have no school Friday due to a staff professional development day.

For more information on other Terry Fox events at Rainbow Schools and how to donate to the cause, visit the board’s website.

Last year, Brody Perreault, a student from Northeastern Elementary School, canvassed the community and collected more than $500 in honour of vice-principal Lisa Puddester. (Supplied/Rainbow District School Board)