Commemorating Terry Fox with Art: A Legacy of Hope
Terry Fox’s hometown, Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, has recently unveiled an impactful public art installation titled "Gateway of Giants" to commemorate the 45th anniversary of his iconic Marathon of Hope. The unveiling ceremony, held on a Saturday, highlighted the collaboration between the city and the Fox family. Terry’s niece, Kirsten Fox, expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting how the community envelops Terry’s memory, creating a supportive atmosphere around his legacy. This deep-rooted connection to Terry symbolizes the enduring spirit of hope and resilience that transcends generations, affirming that Terry’s journey continues to inspire.
The installation features two sculptures designed by Spanish artist Casto Solano, situated in an open plaza along Wilson Avenue. The city has described this area as an inviting space for visitors, encouraging reflection on Terry’s significant journey that began in the very community he called home. Mayor Brad West emphasized the goal of creating an engaging environment that resonates with the memories of Terry as an ordinary child growing up in Port Coquitlam. The sculptures are designed to be approachable, inviting people to touch, interact with, and photograph them, fostering a sense of community connection to Terry’s narrative.
In reflecting on the impact of the installation, Mayor West foresaw families visiting the site, prompting children’s curiosity and conversations about Terry’s legacy. As the person who embarked on his Marathon of Hope in 1980, Terry aimed to raise funds for cancer research after losing one of his legs to the disease. His inspiring endeavor began in St. John’s, Newfoundland, on April 12, where he dipped his foot into the Atlantic Ocean, symbolizing hope. Sadly, he was forced to halt his journey in Ontario on September 1 due to the return of cancer, yet his mission has persisted, morphing into widespread annual events that celebrate his tenacity.
Today, the Marathon of Hope continues to resonate across Canada, having raised over $850 million for cancer research, reinforcing the community’s continued commitment to Terry’s cause. The 45th anniversary serves as a touching milestone, evoking pride among Fox’s family and friends alike. Kirsten Fox encapsulated this sentiment by stating that the ongoing support illustrates the community’s belief in Terry’s values of determination, empathy, and perseverance. These principles continue to inspire new generations of Canadians, ensuring that Terry’s message remains alive and relevant.
The sculptures are strategically placed along a walkway leading to the Port Coquitlam Community Centre, which also hosts an exhibit honoring Fox’s journey. Among the artifacts displayed are his spare prosthetic leg and a Marathon of Hope T-shirt. This arrangement creates a physical narrative that connects visitors not only to Terry’s accomplishments but to the essence of his character and mission. Alward, Terry’s best friend who accompanied him on the original marathon journey, remarked on the significance of the sculptures as a lasting representation of Terry’s legacy. According to Alward, Terry’s profound understanding of the importance of giving back is a vital lesson for individuals today.
Through this artistic tribute, Port Coquitlam has not only celebrated Terry Fox’s historic journey but has also fostered a communal acknowledgment of his enduring impact on Canadian society. The "Gateway of Giants" stands as a testament to hope, resilience, and the collective memory of a young man who sought to make a difference, paving the way for future generations to embrace his legacy of compassion and activism in the fight against cancer.
