by Thomas Hansen, Grade 5 Co-Lead Teacher, Community Outreach Coordinator and Organiser for Terry Fox Run -

On 20 April 1980, Terrance “Terry” Stanley Fox embarked on a cross-country run of Canada to raise money and awareness for cancer research. With one leg amputated, Terry ran a total of 5373 km over a course of 143 days. When Terry Fox passed away partway through his run, he left behind a lasting, worldwide legacy. Today, children all over Canada and the rest of the world take part in annual walks and runs to carry Terry’s legacy and continue to raise awareness and funds to help with the fight against cancer.

In February, each of our campuses held their annual Terry Fox run in recognition of Terry’s mission 35 years ago. At Lakeside, students from Pre-K to Grade 12 ran simultaneously at various locations in and around the school, showing tremendous determination and enthusiasm throughout the 40-minute run. Over at our TK campus, the High Commissioner of Canada in Singapore, Ms. Heather Grant, kicked off the run with an inspiring speech, and led the way throughout the morning of staggered runs.

In the lead up to the Terry Fox run, CIS students were asked to collect pledges from family and friends to support the Singapore Cancer Society, and on 6 March 2016, a number of staff and students were in attendance at the Singapore Terry Fox Run at East Coast Park, where fundraising cheques were presented as part of the kick-off ceremony. Once again, CIS led the way in donations and we continue to be the largest contributor to this annual fundraiser. This year, we raised a remarkable $94,688 for the Singapore Cancer Society, and we are one step closer to finding a cure for cancer.

Way to go CIS!