On September 20, three Richmond Hill sub-chapters of BLIA Toronto joined forces at the annual Terry Fox Run in Markham, walking to support cancer research and honor the legacy of Terry Fox.

Participants gathered at Thornlea Secondary School in Markham, Ontario, uniting under the team’s name "BLIA Richmond Hill". Early that morning, sub-chapter presidents Sally Kwok and Joyce Wei, alongside committee members, arrived to assist with registration. Dressed in their signature yellow BLIA vests, the group set out in the morning sun to walk for a noble cause.

Since its inception in 1981, the Terry Fox Run has grown into a global movement supported by participants across more than 60 countries and regions. Through community engagement and fundraising, the initiative continues to fund critical cancer research, empowering every participant to contribute meaningfully to the fight against cancer.

Before the event kicked off, local officials delivered inspiring opening remarks, thanking the community for its enduring commitment and encouraging everyone to turn compassion into action so Terry Fox’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Markham City Councillor Keith Irish highlighted the enduring impact of Terry Fox, who embarked on his legendary "Marathon of Hope" across Canada despite his diagnosis. Though his run was cut short after 143 days, Councillor Irish emphasized that his true legacy lies not in the distance he ran alone, but in the millions, he inspired to walk together. He noted that over the past four decades, the movement has raised more than $850 million CAD globally for cancer research, bringing vital support and hope to patients worldwide.

That spirit was vibrant throughout the day as BLIA members and their families completed the two-kilometer route. While a modest distance, every step carried profound purpose—representing courage for those battling illness and a heartfelt blessing of health and resilience for all. Through their dedicated steps, Buddha’s Light members transformed Terry Fox’s spirit of perseverance into a warm, uplifting strength for the whole community.

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