On April 12, 1980, a young athlete named Terry Fox dipped his prosthetic leg into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of St. John, New Foundland, Canada. This monumental moment marked the beginning of a journey that would forever change Canada. Terry Fox had a clear goal in mind: to traverse his beloved country, embarking on an approximately 8,000-kilometre journey. His mission was to raise as much money as possible for cancer research while bravely walking on his prosthetic leg, having lost his right leg to cancer.

The front of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope Econoline

During his journey, Terry Fox was accompanied by Doug Alward, who sat behind the wheel of this 1980 Ford Econoline E-250 Funcraft camper conversion. Later on, Terry's brother, Darrel Fox, also joined the cross-country tour. Together, the trio lived out of the van for the duration of their mission, spending months cooking meals and sleeping in the converted camper. The van travelled at an average pace of 47 kilometres per day, closely following Terry from the very beginning as he embarked on his mission to make a profound difference for cancer patients worldwide.

The rear of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope Econoline

Terry Fox and his companions spent nearly five months together, traversing the country while tirelessly raising awareness and collecting funds for cancer research. However, after covering an impressive 5,373 kilometres and gaining increasing recognition for his coast-to-coast mission, the trio would find themselves in a dire situation. Terry experienced severe chest pains and persistent coughing fits, leading Alward to rush Terry to the hospital. It was there that the devastating news emerged – Terry's cancer had returned and had spread to his lungs.

The message of the van, translated from French to "Trans-Canadian event to support cancer research" and "Ford and Funcraft are particularly proud to support this courageous attempt"

Despite undergoing treatment to battle the cancer in his lungs, Terry tragically succumbed to his illness in 1981. Even though he had only made it as far as Thunder Bay, Ontario, Terry Fox left behind an enduring legacy characterised by unwavering courage and determination.

Inside the Econoline where the Fox Brothers and Doug Alward would spend the Trans-Canadian journey together when not in motion

His journey may have been unfinished, but Terry's legacy has persisted for over four decades. Each year, Canada hosts an annual Terry Fox run, dedicated to raising funds for cancer research. Since Terry embarked on his mission in 1980, the Terry Fox Run has managed to raise over $850 million dollars, a testament to the incredible impact of his enduring legacy.

Inside through the rear doors of the Econoline, with a message given to Terry Fox in the first month of his journey

After Terry Fox's journey came to an abrupt end, the Ford Econoline Funcraft camper vanished into the ordinary flow of traffic. However, its story was far from over. The Funcraft embarked on a new chapter in its life, becoming the official tour van for the Vancouver-based band "Removal," as it crisscrossed North America.

Overall shot of the exhibited display of the Terry Fox van and its meaning

In 2007, this van was reclaimed, remaining unaltered from its time alongside Terry Fox. In a collaborative effort with Ford, the van underwent a meticulous conservation process, aimed at preserving the historical significance it held from decades prior. Following the restoration's completion, the Funcraft once again travelled across Canada, proudly showcased for all to see and appreciate as one of Canada's most significant automobiles.

Terry Fox during the Marathon of Hope with an OPP officer tailing behind the young athlete, photo courtesy of terryfox.org

During our visit to the Gasoline Alley Museum in Calgary, Alberta, we were fortunate to encounter the Terry Fox Funcraft Econoline camper. It was proudly on display, captivating auto enthusiasts and offering them the opportunity to delve into its historical significance and the remarkable journey it had undertaken four decades earlier.

Photograph of Doug Alward, Terry and brother Darrell Fox, posed up with the Van of Hope. Photo courtesy of th Fox family

Though it may have played a supporting role in Terry Fox's story, this Econoline will be immortalised and preserved alongside numerous artefacts, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of Terry himself. Together, they continue to inspire and educate visitors about the indomitable spirit and determination that have left an indelible mark on Canada's history.

Until the next time I see you guys, get wrenching, get driving, and keep these classics alive!

Sources used for information
Wikipedia
Terry Fox Centre

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics