Terry Fox is a hero. As you know, in 1980 he began the Marathon of Hope, a run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Terry ran 5,373 kilometres in 143 days—a marathon a day on one leg—before his own cancer became too much and he had to stop. In the years since over $600 million has been raised for cancer research in his name.

Terry Fox represents the best of Canada. He is abundantly worthy of our admiration and gratitude. As Canadians, who could we possibly be prouder of? By renaming YVR we expand worldwide awareness not only of Terry Fox, but also of his mission.

"I might not make it (the whole way across Canada)," said Terry. "And if I don't, the Marathon of Hope better continue."

While renaming YVR to Vancouver-Terry Fox International Airport is a great way to expand awareness of Terry Fox and his mission globally—if we truly want to honor Terry we should pledge more than just words. After all, Terry wasn’t seeking fame for himself, but rather a fortune for cancer research.

Imagine a reflecting pool with a statue of Terry dipping his leg into the water in the international departures area of the newly renamed airport where travelers could throw their loose change and make a wish...

• Canadian coins are not accepted in other countries (not even in the United States), meaning international travelers will soon have no use for them.
• The Marathon of Hope began when Terry dipped his artificial leg into the Atlantic Ocean, and would have ended similarly with him dipping it into the Pacific.

Imagine a statue of Terry dipping his leg in the water at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, as he planned, with the intention of raising money for cancer research… at the newly renamed Vancouver-Terry Fox International Airport. This is a noble cause and worthy of your contribution.

Damn right the Marathon of Hope continues—not just for Terry, but for all of us. Let’s raise awareness and dollars for cancer research.