Quebec woman who had same cancer as Terry Fox runs for a cure
CTV
Taking part in her local Terry Fox Run this year, 20-year-old Cassandra Harding shared her story with CTV National News about being diagnosed with the same cancer as the Canadian icon.
For as long as she can remember, Cassandra Harding has taken part in the Terry Fox Run.
Walking through the streets of Pointe-Claire, Que., Harding, 20, participated in this year's annual event, named after the Canadian icon who attempted a cross-country run in 1980 to raise money for cancer research.
This time, Harding's connection to the event became much more personal.
"The world went quiet when I heard those words, 'You have cancer,'" she told CTV National News.
"Those aren't words that you want to ever hear, but I knew from that day on the battle began and had to take it one step at a time."
At 19, Harding was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, the same bone cancer that cut short Fox's Marathon of Hope. He died at the age of 22 after the cancer returned and spread to his lungs.
Asked how she got through her toughest moments, Harding said she just tried to stay positive.