Toronto runner targets marathon record to support cancer foundation that saved him

Canadian Running Magazine reported that Toronto runner Brandon Throop will attempt to set a Guinness World Record at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Throop aims to complete the race in a hospital gown to raise funds and awareness for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. [1]

Throop was diagnosed with cancer in 2022, and the anniversary of his first treatment falls in October near the date of the race. He is participating in the marathon for the third time to give back to the research and treatment center that saved his life, Canadian Running Magazine reported. [1]

The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre treats more than 400,000 patients every year. Canadian Running Magazine noted that it is the largest cancer center in Canada and ranks among the five largest cancer centers in the world. [1]

Canada has a long history of marathon fundraising efforts for cancer research. Athlete Terry Fox lost a leg to cancer and began a cross-Canada run in 1980 to raise money for research, leading to the annual Terry Fox Run which has raised over 1 billion Canadian dollars. [2]