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Remembering Bill Vigars: The Man Behind Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope

Bill Vigars, a key figure in promoting Terry Fox’s iconic Marathon of Hope in 1980, has passed away at the age of 78. His wife, Sherry MacDonald, confirmed his death due to congestive heart failure, marking the end of a long and courageous battle that began with a heart attack in June.

Survived by his wife, children, stepson, and grandson, Vigars will be honored in a private ceremony early next year. Described as a man full of life and mischief, Vigars was known for his adventurous spirit and dedication to keeping Terry Fox’s legacy alive.

As the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society, Vigars played a crucial role in supporting Fox during his cross-Canada run to raise funds for cancer research. He remained by Fox’s side until the tragic end of his journey in Thunder Bay, where Fox’s battle with cancer came to a heartbreaking conclusion.

Vigars continued to champion Fox’s dream by spreading awareness and sharing his story with schools every September ahead of the annual Terry Fox Run. His commitment to honoring Fox’s vision was evident in his book, “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope,” co-authored with Ian Harvey.

His passing has deeply impacted the Terry Fox Foundation and the Canadian community, with tributes pouring in to celebrate Vigars’ dedication and friendship with Fox. His legacy as a publicist, author, and friend of Terry Fox will forever be remembered, leaving behind a lasting impact on cancer research in Canada.

Bill Vigars may have left this world, but his spirit and unwavering commitment to Terry Fox’s cause will continue to inspire generations to come.

Who was Bill Vigars and what was his role in Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope?

Bill Vigars, a key figure in the promotion of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope in 1980, passed away at the age of 78. His wife, Sherry MacDonald, confirmed that Vigars died of congestive heart failure in White Rock, B.C. after a long battle that began with a heart attack in June. Vigars leaves behind his wife, two children, a stepson, and one grandson. He will be remembered at a private ceremony early next year.

What was Vigars’ relationship with Terry Fox?

Vigars was the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He met Fox in 1980 and became his public relations officer and confidant as Fox embarked on his journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Vigars remained by Fox’s side until the tragic end of his journey in Thunder Bay, where Fox learned that his cancer had spread to his lungs, leading to his passing on June 28, 1981.

How did Vigars contribute to Terry Fox’s legacy?

Fox’s legacy paved the way 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 and would visit schools every September to share Fox’s story before the annual run. He and Fox shared a vision, and Vigars made it his mission to honor that vision.

What was Vigars’ book “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” about?

Vigars co-authored a book with Ian Harvey titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” which was released on Aug. 29, 2023. The book offers a unique perspective on the Marathon of Hope and was a labor of love for Vigars. Although initially hesitant to draw attention to himself, he felt that Canadians deserved to know the story behind Terry Fox’s journey.

How was Vigars remembered by his publisher and the Terry Fox Foundation?

Sutherland House Publishing expressed deep sadness at Vigars’ passing, calling him an author, publicist, and close friend of Terry Fox. The Terry Fox Foundation also paid tribute to Vigars, acknowledging his role in making Terry Fox a relatable and accessible figure. Vigars’ impact on keeping Fox’s memory alive was truly remarkable.

In conclusion, Bill Vigars’ contribution to Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope and his dedication to keeping Fox’s legacy alive will forever be remembered. His work in promoting cancer research through the annual Terry Fox Run has had a lasting impact. Vigars’ book and his commitment to sharing Fox’s story have ensured that Terry Fox’s message of hope and perseverance continues to inspire generations. The world has lost a true champion, but his legacy will live on.

Sources:
– Chek News
– CBC
– Terry Fox Foundation