Today is your day Boomer! At age 56, he was an almost-Boomer and, he was an almost-Terry Fox! Yes, he was Steve Fonyo from Vernon, BC who, like Terry, ran his way across Canada on one artificial leg. He did it in 1984-85, five years after Terry passed away.....picking up where Fox left off in Ontario and finishing in Victoria. This picture is quite famous as Steve dips his foot into the Pacific Ocean to signify the end of his gruelling journey. Most Boomers will remember his story and, as a journalist, I certainly do. I know it also inspired many other people to run, walk, or bike across Canada....which is a heck of a long trip! There is a down side to Steve though. Fonyo was appointed an officer of the Order of Canada in 1985 at the age of 19 — the youngest person to receive the honour at the time. But his membership was terminated in 2009 following several criminal convictions. The decision sparked public outcry, with critics saying at the time he should be remembered as a hero despite his struggles later in life. Steve did drugs and was in court many times, tarnishing his reputation. But, he did pass away this week and he deserves respect and a big salute in my Boomer blog. Thanks Steve; those were mighty big shoes to fill. Cheers!

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