I’m not sure what you would like me to expand on. Could you please provide more information or specify the topic you would like me to elaborate on? Obituary – Cause of Death : Expanding can refer to various actions, such as increasing in size, extending in scope, or broadening in range. It can also refer to developing or growing in a particular area or aspect. In a more general sense, expanding can mean progressing, advancing, or evolving in some way.

Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Bill Vigars, the man who played a pivotal role in promoting Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope back in 1980, has passed away at the age of 78. His wife, Sherry MacDonald, confirmed that Vigars died of congestive heart failure in a hospital in White Rock, B.C., surrounded by his loved ones. Despite battling health issues since suffering a heart attack in June, Vigars remained spirited and full of life.

Vigars, a former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society, met Terry Fox in 1980 and became his confidant as Fox embarked on his journey to run across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. Vigars stood by Fox until the tragic end of his marathon in Thunder Bay, where Fox’s cancer had spread to his lungs. Fox’s legacy lives on through the annual Terry Fox Run, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research since its inception.

Vigars dedicated himself to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive by sharing his story with school children every September, except for this year when he was in the hospital. He published a book last year titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope,” offering a unique perspective on Fox’s journey. Despite initially hesitating to draw attention to himself, Vigars believed Canadians deserved to know the story behind Fox’s inspirational mission.

Both his publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, and the Terry Fox Foundation paid tribute to Vigars on social media, highlighting his close friendship with Fox and his dedication to preserving Fox’s legacy. Vigars will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to Terry Fox’s vision and his significant contributions to cancer research in Canada.

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

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

Bill Vigars led the promotion of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope in 1980. He served as Terry Fox’s public relations officer and confidant during his journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research.

How did Bill Vigars pass away and what was his legacy?

Bill Vigars passed away at the age of 78 due to congestive heart failure. His legacy includes keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive and promoting the annual Terry Fox Run, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research since 1980.

What was Bill Vigars’ personal life like and how did he impact Terry Fox’s mission?

Bill Vigars was described as “full of life, full of mischief” by his wife, Sherry MacDonald. He was married in 2009 and had two children, a stepson, and a grandson. Vigars shared Terry Fox’s vision and worked tirelessly to share Fox’s story with schools and communities to keep his dream alive.

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

Bill Vigars published a book with Ian Harvey that provided his perspective on Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope. The book was released in 2023 and was considered a labour of love by Vigars, who wanted Canadians to know the story behind Fox’s inspiring journey.

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

Bill Vigars was remembered as an author, publicist, and close friend of Terry Fox by his colleagues at Sutherland House Publishing and the Terry Fox Foundation. They expressed their sadness at his passing and acknowledged his dedication to keeping Terry Fox’s memory alive.

Bill succeeded at making Terry a relatable, accessible human being, ‘no different than anyone else… no better and… no less,’ as Terry said,” it said of Vigars in a Facebook post.

Who was Bill Vigars?

Bill Vigars was a key figure in the promotion of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope in 1980. He served as Terry Fox’s public relations officer and confidant during Fox’s journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Vigars was dedicated to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive and spreading awareness of his story.

What was Vigars’ Relationship with Terry Fox?

Vigars met Terry Fox in 1980 and worked closely with him as his public relations officer. He was by Fox’s side throughout his journey and was with him until the tragic end in Thunder Bay. Vigars shared Fox’s vision and was committed to upholding his legacy through initiatives like the annual Terry Fox Run.

What was Vigars’ Contribution to Terry Fox’s Legacy?

Bill Vigars published a book titled “Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope” in collaboration with Ian Harvey. The book, released in 2023, provides a unique perspective on the Marathon of Hope and Terry Fox’s inspiring journey. Vigars’ dedication to sharing Fox’s story and keeping his memory alive was a significant contribution to Terry Fox’s legacy.

How was Vigars Remembered?

Following Bill Vigars’ passing, tributes poured in from various organizations and individuals. His publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, expressed sadness at the news of his death and highlighted his role as an author, publicist, and close friend of Terry Fox. The Terry Fox Foundation also honored Vigars for his impactful work in preserving Terry Fox’s memory and making his story accessible to all.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 12, 2024.

–By Brieanna Charlebois in Vancouver

The Canadian Press

Bill Vigars, a man who dedicated his life to promoting Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope, has left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. In a touching Facebook post, it was revealed that Bill had succeeded in humanizing Terry, making him relatable and accessible to everyone. Terry himself acknowledged this, stating that he was “no different than anyone else…no better and…no less.” This simple yet powerful sentiment encapsulates the essence of what Bill was able to achieve – he showed the world that Terry was just like us, a regular person with hopes, dreams, and fears.

The impact of Bill’s work cannot be overstated. By humanizing Terry, he allowed people to see beyond the heroic image of a cancer survivor running a marathon across Canada. He showed that Terry was more than just a symbol of strength and determination; he was a friend, a son, a brother – a person with a story to tell. Through his efforts, Bill gave Terry the gift of relatability, allowing others to connect with him on a deeper level.

It is clear that Bill’s influence extended far beyond his friendship with Terry. He was able to touch the hearts of countless individuals, inspiring them to see the humanity in others. By reminding us that Terry was “just one of us,” Bill challenged us to look beyond the surface and recognize the shared experiences that unite us all. In doing so, he left behind a powerful message of empathy and compassion that will continue to resonate for years to come.

As we reflect on Bill’s life and legacy, it is evident that his impact will be felt for generations. His ability to connect with others on a personal level, to see the humanity in everyone he met, is a rare gift that few possess. Through his work with Terry Fox and beyond, he showed us the power of empathy, the importance of seeing beyond the surface, and the value of treating others with kindness and respect.

In conclusion, Bill Vigars was more than just a promoter of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope – he was a true humanitarian, a champion of empathy, and a friend to all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, reminding us to always see the humanity in others and to treat everyone with the same compassion and understanding that he showed to Terry. May his memory inspire us to be better, kinder, and more connected to one another.