Thousands of people took part in the 36th annual Terry Fox Run in Toronto on Sunday.

Lisa Hirsh-Wax, a cancer survivor, was among them.

"I am trying to kick cancer in the butt myself," she told CBC News. "I couldn't be happier to be here today."

Image | Lisa Hirsh-Wax 2

Caption: Lisa Hirsh-Wax said she was walking in memory of her father-in-law, 'Loveable Len,' and because she has cancer herself. (CBC)

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Hirsh-Wax said she was walking in memory of her late father-in-law, Len Wax, known as "Loveable Len," who she said raised more than $100,000 for cancer research himself because he was "so inspired" by Terry Fox.

"This year, it's a dual privilege to be here today, supporting the Terry Fox Run and all of the amazing work that they do for everyone who is suffering from this terrible disease."

A memorial clothesline was set up in honour of Terry Fox near the start of the run, at Wilket Creek Park in the Leslie Street and Eglinton Avenue East area.

Terry Fox T-shirts, photos and memorabilia were pinned to the clothesline. "Even if I don't finish, we need others to continue," read one sign with the famous Fox quote. "It's got to keep going without me."

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne also took part.

"On top of everything, all the good you're doing, raising money, all of the difference you will make by being here, it's a great community event," she told the participants before the run began. "So have a wonderful walk, run, whatever it is you do, enjoy yourselves and again, thank you so much for being here,"

The run is one of several being held across Ontario today. Participants are running or walking two, five and ten kilometre-long routes.

Image | hi-terry-fox

Caption: Terry Fox on his Marathon of Hope in 1980. (Therapy Content)

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