By | October 13, 2024

Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Bill Vigars, the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society, played a crucial role in the life of Terry Fox. Vigars served as Fox’s public relations officer and confidant as Fox embarked on his journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research in 1980. Unfortunately, Fox’s journey came to a tragic end in Thunder Bay when he learned that the cancer that took his right leg had spread to his lungs. Fox passed away on June 28, 1981, leaving behind a legacy that would shape cancer research in Canada.

Vigars dedicated himself to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive by spreading awareness of Fox’s story and the annual Terry Fox Run. His commitment to Fox’s vision was unwavering, and he even co-authored a book titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” to share his perspective on the Marathon of Hope. Despite his initial reluctance to draw attention to himself, Vigars felt that Canadians deserved to know the story of Terry Fox.

Vigars’ passing has left a void in the Terry Fox community, with both his publisher and the Terry Fox Foundation expressing their condolences. His ability to humanize Terry Fox and make him relatable to others was a gift that he cherished. Vigars will always be remembered for his dedication to keeping Terry Fox’s legacy alive and his contribution to cancer research in Canada.

Bill Vigars, campaign manager for Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, dies at 78

1. What was Vigars’ role in the Canadian Cancer Society and how did he meet Terry Fox?
2. How did Vigars support Terry Fox during his journey to run across Canada?
3. What was the tragic end of Terry Fox’s journey and how did Vigars continue to honor his legacy?
4. How did Vigars contribute to the annual Terry Fox Run and what impact has it had on cancer research in Canada?
5. What was the relationship between Vigars and Terry Fox, and how did they share a common vision?
6. What book did Vigars publish and what was its significance in telling Terry Fox’s story?
7. How did Vigars feel about sharing Terry Fox’s story through the book despite his initial reluctance?
8. How did the publisher and the Terry Fox Foundation pay tribute to Vigars after his passing, and what was his impact on Terry Fox’s legacy?

Who was Bill Vigars and his relationship with Terry Fox?

Bill Vigars was the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He met Terry Fox in 1980 and served as his public relations officer and confidant as Terry set out with the goal of running across Canada to raise money for cancer research. 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.

Vigars and Fox shared a close bond, with Vigars being instrumental in helping Terry achieve his mission and keeping his dream alive even after his passing. Their relationship was based on mutual respect and shared values, with Vigars seeing Terry as a guiding light and someone whose tenacity and determination he admired and strived to emulate.

What was the impact of Terry Fox’s legacy?

Terry Fox’s legacy set the framework for the annual Terry Fox Run, which has been instrumental in igniting cancer research in Canada. Since 1980, the Terry Fox Foundation website reports that the run has raised more than $850 million. Fox’s courageous journey and determination to make a difference have inspired countless individuals to come together and support cancer research in his honor.

How did Bill Vigars contribute to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive?

Bill Vigars made it his mission to keep Terry Fox’s dream alive by sharing his story with others. He would visit schools every September to tell Fox’s story ahead of the annual run, ensuring that Terry’s legacy continued to inspire and motivate people to support cancer research. Vigars’ dedication to honoring Terry’s vision and objectives was evident in his commitment to spreading awareness and raising funds in Terry’s memory.

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

Vigars co-authored a book with Ian Harvey titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope.” Released in 2023, the book provided a unique perspective on Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope from Vigars’ point of view. Despite his initial reluctance to draw attention to himself, Vigars felt that Canadians deserved to know the story behind Terry’s journey and the impact he had on cancer research. The book was a labor of love for Vigars and a way to preserve Terry’s legacy for future generations.

In conclusion, Bill Vigars played a crucial role in keeping Terry Fox’s memory alive and ensuring that his legacy continued to inspire and motivate others. Through his dedication, commitment, and friendship with Terry, Vigars left a lasting impact on the world of cancer research and fundraising. His contributions will always be remembered and appreciated by those who were touched by Terry Fox’s incredible journey.