About 76 people participated in last year's event. (Teena Monteleone/paNOW)

By Nigel Maxwell

Cancer awareness

‘Cancer doesn’t define you’: Organizers prepare for annual Terry Fox Run

Sep 12, 2025 | 5:00 PM

The honorary chair of this year’s Terry Fox Run in Prince Albert says having cancer does not define you.

Liane Vance is looking forward to Sunday’s event that begins at noon with registration at the Alfred Jenkins Field House. Participants, who have the option of running or walking a 2km, 5km, or 10km distance, will set up at 1 p.m. along the rotary trail.

“You don’t have to do those specific distances. You can just go as far or as long as you’d like,” Vance said.

In 2018, Vance was diagnosed with rectal cancer and endured 20 rounds of radiation, eight rounds of chemo and two surgeries. In 2019, she was informed by doctors they could not find any more evidence of the cancer.

Sadly, Liane’s husband Bruce, who is also a former honorary chair, was diagnosed with cancer in 2013 and after a long and courageous battle, passed away in 2024.

Seniors Scene

Christmas is Coming

13h ago

Grey Cup!!!

Everything you wanted and more

Nov 21, 2025

12 Best Tips to Spend Less at Christmas

Nov 18, 2025

Liane acknowledged that when Bruce was first diagnosed, it was, because of the unknowns, very intimidating and she was unaware of what steps to take. She’s since learned more about the resources and supports available and has a far more positive outlook.

She stated people will have symptoms and not go to the doctor because they are afraid that it might be something bad, but the research and treatments have advanced so much that the earlier you can get to cancer, the better your chances are.

“I’m not gonna lie… like the treatments are very horrible and the side effects can be long term but still you’re here,” she said. “Both what Bruce and I try to promote is you can still live a full life and a happy life even if you have cancer. Cancer doesn’t define you.”

On Sunday, the Terry Fox Run will take place in 37 Saskatchewan communities, with more taking place on different September days, and even more through the schools.

The theme of this year’s event is “Finish It” and Vance noted that refers to all of us doing what we can do to finish cancer, whether through donations to cancer research or participation in events like the Terry Fox Run.

Last year, through the community and school Runs, Saskatchewan raised $919,150.

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell