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 Terry Fox’s iconic Marathon of Hope journey. Meeting Fox in 1980, Vigars served as his public relations officer and confidant as Fox embarked on his mission to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
Tragically, Fox’s journey came to a heartbreaking end in Thunder Bay when he learned that the cancer that had taken 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 forever.
Vigars was dedicated to keeping Fox’s dream alive, spreading awareness of his 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 journey.
Both Vigars’ publisher and the Terry Fox Foundation paid tribute to him on social media, recognizing his immense contribution to keeping Fox’s memory alive. Vigars’ wife, MacDonald, spoke of his reluctance to draw attention to himself but acknowledged the importance of sharing Fox’s story with Canadians.
Vigars’ impact on cancer research in Canada cannot be overstated. His dedication to Terry Fox’s mission and his passion for spreading awareness made him a beloved figure in the community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to support cancer research and honor the memory of Terry Fox.
Bill Vigars, campaign manager for Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, dies at 78
Who was Bill Vigars?
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 Fox set out on his journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research.
What was Bill Vigars’ role in Terry Fox’s journey?
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.
How did Terry Fox’s legacy 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, according to the Terry Fox Foundation website.
What was Bill Vigars’ relationship with Terry Fox?
MacDonald said Vigars made it his mission to keep Terry Fox’s dream alive, sharing his story at schools every September ahead of the annual run. Vigars and Fox shared a vision, and Vigars was dedicated to upholding Fox’s objectives.
What book did Bill Vigars publish and why?
Vigars published a book with Ian Harvey titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” in 2023. Initially reluctant to draw attention to himself, Vigars felt Canadians deserved to know the story of the Marathon of Hope from his perspective.
How did the community react to Bill Vigars’ passing?
His publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, expressed sadness over Vigars’ death, recognizing him as an author, publicist, and close friend of Terry Fox. The Terry Fox Foundation also honored Vigars, acknowledging his role in making Terry a relatable and accessible human being.
Who was Bill Vigars and how did he impact Terry Fox’s legacy?
Bill Vigars was the former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He played a significant role in Terry Fox’s journey as his public relations officer and confidant when Fox set out to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research in 1980. Vigars stood by Fox’s side until the tragic end of his journey in Thunder Bay when Fox discovered that his cancer had spread. Despite the heartbreaking outcome, Vigars made it his mission to keep Terry Fox’s dream alive and continued to share Fox’s story with schools every September ahead of the annual Terry Fox Run.
What was Terry Fox’s legacy and how did Bill Vigars contribute to it?
Terry Fox’s legacy includes the annual Terry Fox Run, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research since its inception in 1980. Vigars played a crucial role in preserving Fox’s legacy by sharing his story and inspiring others to continue the fight against cancer. He was deeply committed to upholding Fox’s vision and values, and his dedication to keeping Fox’s dream alive was evident in his work with schools and the publication of a book about Fox’s Marathon of Hope.
What was the significance of the book “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope”?
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, provides a unique perspective on Fox’s iconic journey from Vigars’ point of view. Despite his initial reluctance to draw attention to himself, Vigars felt that Canadians deserved to know the story behind Fox’s Marathon of Hope. The book was a labor of love for Vigars and a significant accomplishment that he was proud of.
How did Bill Vigars impact Terry Fox’s perception as a relatable human being?
Bill Vigars succeeded in making Terry Fox a relatable and accessible human being, ‘no different than anyone else… no better and… no less,’ as Terry himself said. By humanizing Fox and emphasizing his humanity, Vigars gave his beloved friend the gift of being seen as just one of us. This approach helped to break down barriers and connect people to Fox’s story on a deeper level, fostering a greater sense of empathy and understanding.
In conclusion, Bill Vigars played a crucial role in preserving Terry Fox’s legacy and ensuring that his story continues to inspire others to this day. Through his dedication, passion, and commitment to keeping Fox’s dream alive, Vigars leaves behind a lasting impact on the fight against cancer and the legacy of one of Canada’s greatest heroes.