Brampton is moving forward with plans to honor Terry Fox’s enduring legacy, unveiling the design for a new memorial in Chinguacousy Park. The monument, created by Toronto-based artist Christiano De Araujo, is expected to be completed by fall 2025, just in time for the 45th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope.
A Tribute to an Icon
Fox, a Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist, passed through Brampton during his cross-country run in 1980, inspiring millions with his determination to raise funds for cancer research.
The city has allocated $150,000 for the memorial, which will be placed along the walking trail near the entrance of Terry Fox Stadium. The final design is set for council approval on Wednesday.
The bronze statue will depict Fox in his signature running attire, closely resembling archival photographs from his journey through Brampton.
Key design features include:
Pedestal with a forest landscape – featuring native animals and trees, symbolizing the diverse terrain Fox encountered.
Embedded bronze road markings – resembling the yellow broken lines of a highway, with key details from his Marathon of Hope.
Asphalt pathway surrounding the memorial, creating an interactive experience for visitors.
The Art Selection Committee, which included professional artists and Fox’s older brother, Fred Fox, selected De Araujo’s design from a Canada-wide competition. The goal was to create a monument that captures Fox’s spirit and lasting impact.
Honoring a Legacy That Lives On
Fox ran an average of 42 kilometers per day for 140 days before his marathon was cut short on September 1, 1980, near Thunder Bay, after cancer spread to his lungs.
Since then, the Terry Fox Foundation has raised over $850 million for cancer research, continuing his mission.
With city council expected to approve the final design this week, Brampton will soon have a lasting tribute to one of Canada’s greatest heroes—a place for future generations to reflect, remember, and be inspired.