• Stouffville’s Terry Fox Run returns to Memorial Park on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025.
  • The local run has raised $2.3 million for cancer research since 1982, with last year’s event bringing in more than $91,000.
  • A special invitation is extended to cancer survivors, who will be honoured with red T-shirts and lawn signs.
  • The first-ever Stouffville Terry Fox Trivia Night will be held July 17 at Muddy York Brewing Co.
  • Teams, individuals, and volunteers can sign up and donate online, with a 2025 fundraising goal of $85,000.

 

Preparations are underway for this year’s Terry Fox Run in Stouffville. The 2025 event, set for Sunday, Sept. 14, will mark the 45th anniversary of the cherished Canadian tradition. The local run has raised more than $2.3 million for cancer research since its inception in 1982, and organizers were commemorated at a recent Toronto event for their community-driven impact.

Last year’s run drew approximately 1,000 participants and volunteers, who collectively raised more than $91,000. Residents are once again invited to take part in the event, which is returning to Memorial Park.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 12:50 p.m., followed by the start of the run at 1 p.m. Cancer survivors are especially encouraged to attend and will be given red T-shirts as a powerful visual tribute to their strength and resilience. Lawn signs will also be available for survivors to display their perseverance and lived experience.

“The red shirts are a powerful symbol of hope, as they are worn not only by those who have conquered cancer, but also those currently in treatment, because every day is another day we are fighting this fight together,” said co-chair Stacey FitzPatrick in a recent press release. “Whatever colour your shirt is on run day, we look forward to having you walk, run, ride, scoot, or stroll with us as we support one another in Terry’s honour.”

The 2025 route has been updated in collaboration with the Town of Stouffville to enhance safety. The 5K course begins and ends in Memorial Park and includes a stretch along Park Drive, which was renamed Terry Fox Way in 2023.

To minimize traffic exposure, the route will largely follow sidewalks and trails. A 2K route is also available for those seeking a shorter option, and local musicians will perform at water stations along the course to energize participants.

This year’s fundraising target is $85,000. As part of the lead-up to the main event, organizers have launched the inaugural Stouffville Terry Fox Trivia Night, taking place July 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Muddy York Brewing Co. The evening promises fun, community connection, and a chance to learn more about Terry Fox and the lasting impact of the run.

Volunteers will also be on site at the Stouffville Market, an event sponsor, on Sept. 6 and 13. Meanwhile, the Stouffville Spirit will contribute proceeds from 50/50 draws held during their September home games.

At the time of publication, 16 teams had already registered on the event website. Local businesses, schools, clubs, sports teams, and families are encouraged to join the cause by forming teams, which will be recognized during the event. Participating groups can also pre-order customized Terry Fox shirts, and official Terry Fox Run shirts will be sold at local events in advance of the run.

Organizers are also asking community members to lend their time in support of the event. A dedicated Google Form has been set up for those interested in volunteering, with a range of roles available.

“The Terry Fox Research Institute is doing groundbreaking work, and knowing that our small-town efforts help is powerful,” said co-chair Adele Palmer. “Every dollar, every volunteer, it all adds up. It’s The Marathon of Hope in action.”

Cover image taken by Dennis Hristovski and used with permission from the Stouffville Terry Fox Run