Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
September 23, 2023

On September 17th, the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) of Toronto Richmond Hill Subchapter 1, 2, and 3 participated in the annual Terry Fox Run fundraising event. BLIA of Toronto Vice President Cao Fengyan and 36 Fo Guang members participated in the event to raise funds for cancer treatment research.

Members of BLIA of Toronto Richmond Hill Subchapter 1, 2, and 3 took a group photo. photo／The Life News Agency

During the opening ceremony, the organizers expressed their gratitude to all participants and groups for providing the foundation with ample resources to conduct cancer treatment research, ultimately promoting health for more people.

During his speech, Frank Scarpitti, the mayor of the city of Markham, Ontario, mentioned that during his youth, he witnessed Terry Fox running tirelessly with a medical team by his side. The moving sight from that time still deeply impresses him. Therefore, he encouraged everyone to carry forward Terry Fox's spirit and contribute to the fight against cancer.

Ontario MPP Laura Smith took a photo with Fo Guang members. photo／The Life News Agency

Ontario MPP Laura Smith pointed out that Terry Fox's initial actions had a nationwide impact, helping to develop various cancer treatments. The type of cancer Terry suffered from, which had a cure rate of over 80% at present, can be attributed to the support and efforts of the public.

Fo Guang members waved national flags and the Buddha's Light flag to start the 2-kilometer walk. photo／The Life News Agency

After a warm-up activity, participants joyfully waved national flags and the Buddha's Light flag to start the 2-kilometer walk. The ages of the Fo Guang team ranged from 6 to over 90 years old, including three generations of Fo Guang families, all of them working together for a good cause. The run was completed in a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, and participants returned to the starting point for a group photo and enjoyed a delicious meal provided by the organizers. Ethan, a Fo Guang child participating for the first time, happily said, "I hope to continue participating in this event every year in the future."

Ethan said he hoped to continue participating every year in the future. photo／The Life News Agency