Bill Vigars, a key figure in promoting Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope in 1980, has passed away at the age of 78. His wife, Sherry MacDonald, confirmed that Vigars died of congestive heart failure surrounded by loved ones in a hospital in White Rock, B.C. Vigars, a former director of public relations and fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society, played a crucial role in supporting Fox on his journey to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. Vigars remained by Fox’s side until the tragic end of his journey in Thunder Bay when cancer spread to his lungs, ultimately leading to Fox’s death in 1981.
Following Fox’s death, Vigars dedicated himself to keeping Terry Fox’s dream alive. Vigars was instrumental in establishing the annual Terry Fox Run, which has raised over $850 million for cancer research in Canada since its inception in 1980. Vigars would visit schools every September to share Fox’s story and inspire students to participate in the run. MacDonald, Vigars’ wife, noted that Terry Fox’s tenacity and determination were qualities that Vigars admired and strived to embody in his own life, emphasizing the strong connection between the two men and their shared vision.
Vigars and Fox were in sync on their objectives, with Vigars sharing Fox’s passion and commitment to the cause. Vigars published a book in 2023 titled Terry & Me: The Inside Story of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope, co-authored with Ian Harvey, which offers a personal account of Vigars’ experiences during the Marathon of Hope. Initially hesitant to draw attention to himself, Vigars ultimately decided to share the story with Canadians, viewing it as a labor of love and a significant accomplishment. His publisher, Sutherland House Publishing, expressed sadness at Vigars’ passing, recognizing him as both an author and a close friend of Terry Fox.
The Terry Fox Foundation also paid tribute to Vigars, acknowledging his role in making Terry Fox a relatable and accessible figure. The foundation highlighted Vigars’ ability to humanize Fox, portraying him as a regular person with hopes and vulnerabilities. Vigars’ dedication to preserving Fox’s legacy and ensuring that his story continued to inspire others was widely recognized and appreciated by those who knew him. His impact on the cancer research community in Canada and his contributions to the Terry Fox Foundation were celebrated following his passing, with many expressing gratitude for his unwavering commitment to Fox’s mission.
MacDonald shared that Vigars missed only one September of visiting schools to share Fox’s story, as he was hospitalized this year. She emphasized that Vigars’ dedication to Terry Fox’s vision was unwavering, with Fox serving as his guiding light. Through his work and advocacy, Vigars ensured that Fox’s message and mission continued to resonate with Canadians and inspire future generations. His legacy as a champion for cancer research and a supporter of Terry Fox’s vision will endure, leaving a lasting impact on those who benefited from his efforts and dedication. Vigars’ passing marks a significant loss for the cancer research community and those who admired his commitment to a cause that he held dear.
