Orillia is among a select group of Canadian communities to host a visit by the iconic van used by Terry Fox during his 1980 Marathon of Hope.

“For people who didn’t get to see Terry when he was here, or who weren’t born at the time, this is an opportunity to be part of the Marathon of Hope,” said Alison Stoneman, cancer survivor and organizer of Orillia’s annual Terry Fox Run.

The newly refurbished Ford Econline van served as a mobile home base for Fox and a small support team during his legendary journey.

It is scheduled to arrive at Terry Fox Circle in Couchiching Beach Park on July 21 at 5 p.m.
Fox’s brother Darrell, a member of the original team, will be on hand, while supporters are invited to walk laps around the circle to raise funds for cancer research.

“We are very excited,” Stoneman said of the upcoming event. “It is very significant, just great that we get to see (the van), to touch it.”

Described as a place of refuge for Fox during his arduous trek, the van is today at the centre of a cross-country fundraising effort that winds its way through 50 communities.
Thor Motors is hosting the local stop.

“Orillia has heart,” said Bob Brown, of the Gill Street dealership. “Terry’s dream was to raise $1 for cancer research from every Canadian, and we will be thrilled to donate $1 for every lap Orillians walk around Terry Fox Circle, while the van is here, up to $3,000. I can’t wait to write the cheque.”

Until recently, the vehicle’s location was unknown.
“It was owned by a rock band for many, many years,” Stoneman added. “Darrel Fox got a tip about it and followed up on it. It was in horrible shape after 28 years with a rock band.”

Ford Canada has since rebuilt the van and restored it to its original condition.
“What Ford did was absolutely amazing,” Stoneman added.

The OPP will provide a period-correct black-and-white cruiser to escort the van during its tour through Ontario, said Commissioner Julian Fantino.
“The Ontario Provincial Police feel as honoured and privileged to be involved in the (tour) this year as we did when we assisted with the historic Terry Fox Marathon of Hope tour in 1980,” Fantino said.

The Terry Fox Foundation, an independent trust, has raised more than $400 million for cancer research since its inception.
Orillia’s annual Terry Fox Run takes places Sept. 14.