Niagara Falls resident Steve Iorio was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma in his right leg, the same cancer that Terry Fox was diagnosed with.

"In January 1980 I woke up one morning and my ankle was swelling so badly I couldn't stand on my leg," said Iorio.

Iorio had to have his right leg amputated during his last year of high school. He told the students that he began to follow Terry's journey at that time and even clipped articles for a scrapbook.

In 1980, Iorio met Fox on the steps of Niagara Falls city hall and they shared a ride to Marineland.

"The best part was the ride to Marineland," said Iorio. "He talked about what he wanted to do when the marathon was over."

Iorio told students how he visited Fox twice and how he always had the same determination. He told them how he remembered how thin Fox was, but will never forget his firm handshake.

He also said that through the annual Terry Fox run, Fox's dreams are still being made possible.

Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn and Wainfleet Mayor Barb Henderson were on hand to congratulate the students on their enthusiasm.

"None of you were born when the walk first occurred," said Augustyn.

He said that it was a real testament to Fox that so many students were enthusiastic about the walk.

Principal Ann Harrison said the 850 students of E.L Crossley had raised just over $10,000."Most go well above the minimum," said Harrison.