The federal government announced in its fall economic statement (FES) that Terry Fox will be featured on the next $5 bill. The statement reads:
"Terry Fox is a Canadian hero. He campaigned to raise awareness and funding for cancer research by running his Marathon of Hope, a cross-Canada 42-km daily run, on his prosthetic leg. By February 1981, the Marathon of Hope had raised $24.7 million or $1 for every Canadian. His run was interrupted just past the half-way point when the cancer reached his lungs, and ultimately took his life. Through his efforts, the 22-year-old showed Canadians the difference that an ordinary person could make through sheer willpower and determination.
"Today, Terry Fox Runs are held every year, across the country, and around the world to raise money for cancer research. To inspire more Canadians to give $5 to the cause that Terry Fox championed: The 2024 Fall Economic Statement announces that Terry Fox will appear on the next $5 bank note. Sir Wilfrid Laurier will move from the $5 bank note to appear on the next version of the $50 note."
The Terry Fox Family has shared the following statement in response:
"We are truly grateful to MP Chrystia Freeland, the hard work of the independent Advisory Council and all Canadians for voting and/or nominating that resulted in this honour featuring Terry on the new $5 bill.
We would like to acknowledge the accomplishments of all those nominated and especially the seven other short-listed candidates and their meaningful and important contributions.
Terry had difficulty accepting praise or recognition for his Marathon of Hope efforts. However, he did crave money, not for himself, but was always looking for the next dollar raised for cancer research.
We hope when the "Terry Fox fiver" lands in the wallets and pockets of Canadians, that they will consider Terry's vision of eradicating cancer through research."