Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : The passing of Bill Vigars, the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society, has left a significant impact on the legacy of Terry Fox. Vigars played an instrumental role in supporting Fox during his iconic Marathon of Hope in 1980, where Fox embarked on a journey to run across Canada to raise funds for cancer research.
Vigars stood by Fox’s side until the heartbreaking end of his journey in Thunder Bay, where Fox learned that the cancer had spread to his lungs. Despite the tragic outcome, Fox’s legacy continued to inspire millions and laid the foundation for the annual Terry Fox Run, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research in Canada since 1980.
Vigars was dedicated to keeping Fox’s dream alive, sharing his story with schools every September ahead of the annual run. His commitment to honoring Fox’s vision was unwavering, as he worked tirelessly to ensure that Fox’s message of hope and determination resonated with others.
In 2023, Vigars published a book titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope,” offering a unique perspective on Fox’s journey. Despite his initial reluctance to draw attention to himself, Vigars believed that Canadians deserved to know the story behind Fox’s remarkable endeavor.
The news of Vigars’ passing has deeply saddened both his publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, and the Terry Fox Foundation, who praised his close friendship with Fox and his unwavering commitment to sharing Fox’s humanity with the world. Vigars’ legacy as a dedicated advocate for cancer research and a loyal friend to Terry Fox will continue to inspire future generations.
Bill Vigars, campaign manager for Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, dies at 78
Who was Vigars and what was his role in Terry Fox’s journey?
Vigars was the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He met Fox in 1980 and served as his public relations officer and confidant as the 21-year-old set out with the goal of running across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
How did Terry Fox’s journey come to an end?
Vigars was by Fox’s side until the tragic end of his journey in Thunder Bay, when Fox learned the cancer that had taken his right leg had spread to his lungs. Fox died on June 28, 1981, at Royal Columbia Hospital in New Westminster, B.C.
What was Fox’s legacy and how did it impact cancer research in Canada?
Fox’s legacy set the framework for the annual Terry Fox Run, igniting cancer research in Canada and raising more than $850 million since 1980.
How did Vigars contribute to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive?
MacDonald said Vigars made it his mission to keep Terry Fox’s dream alive by visiting schools every September to tell Fox’s story ahead of the annual run. The only September he missed was this year as he was in the hospital.
What was the significance of the book “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope”?
Vigars published the book with Ian Harvey, providing a unique perspective on the Marathon of Hope. Despite his initial reluctance, the book was a labor of love and a significant accomplishment for Vigars.
How was Vigars remembered by his publisher and the Terry Fox Foundation?
His publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, expressed sadness at Vigar’s death and acknowledged him as an author, publicist, and close friend of Terry Fox. The Terry Fox Foundation also honored Vigars, noting his role in making Terry a relatable and accessible human being.
Who was Bill Vigars?
Bill Vigars was the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He played a crucial role in Terry Fox’s journey as his public relations officer and confidant. Vigars met Fox in 1980 when the 21-year-old embarked on a mission to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
What was Terry Fox’s Legacy?
Terry Fox’s legacy extended beyond his own life and set the groundwork for the annual Terry Fox Run. This event has been instrumental in igniting cancer research in Canada, raising more than $850 million since its inception in 1980. Fox’s determination and tenacity inspired many, including Bill Vigars, to keep his dream alive.
What was Vigars’ Role in Keeping Terry Fox’s Dream Alive?
Bill Vigars dedicated himself to ensuring Terry Fox’s vision continued to inspire others. He would visit schools every September to share Fox’s story before the annual run. Vigars was deeply committed to upholding Fox’s objectives and never wavered from the mission they both believed in.
What was the Significance of Vigars’ Book?
Bill Vigars co-authored a book titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” with Ian Harvey. The book, released in 2023, offered a unique perspective on the Marathon of Hope from Vigars’ point of view. Despite initial reluctance, Vigars felt that Canadians deserved to know the story behind Fox’s incredible journey.
How was Vigars Remembered After His Passing?
After Bill Vigars’ passing, his contributions to Terry Fox’s legacy were widely acknowledged. His publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, and the Terry Fox Foundation paid tribute to his work and friendship with Fox. Vigars’ ability to humanize Terry Fox and remind others of his relatability was seen as his greatest gift to his beloved friend.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 12, 2024.
–By Brieanna Charlebois in Vancouver
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