Mike W. Bryant
Northern News Services
Fort Simpson (Jun 11/01) - The mother of the most famous long distance runner in Canadian history -- Terry Fox -- was in Fort Simpson the last several days speaking at the NWT Recreation Conference.
Betty Fox -- on her third visit to the North from her home in Abbotsford, B.C. -- drew a crowd where ever she went.
For her part, Fox was equally impressed with Northern involvement in the run.
"It's great to be up North to personally thank everyone who has helped keep Terry's dream alive over the last 20 years," Fox said.
Her son Terry Fox began a legendary run for cancer across the country in 1980 before his illness forced him to end his journey near Sudbury, Ontario. He passed away the following year.
During her five-day stay in Fort Simpson June 6-11, Fox visited the schools and was the key speaker at the Recreation Conference.
Fox hopes her visit to the school boards would encourage more students to take part in the Run, which will be taking place September 16 this year.
"I understand there's only two schools doing the run," Fox said. "So hopefully with our meeting with the schools today, we can generate more interest in the Run."
When reminded that the mosquitoes were particularly bad this time of year, Fox took the news in stride.
"I'm originally from Manitoba, so I know all about mosquitoes," Fox said.
