She was 16 years old at the time, and made the trek with her sisters from Mississauga to Oakville alongside the Canadian hero.

"That's what did it for me," she said. "How can it not affect you? It's such a phenomenal... I don't even know how to sum it up properly."

Peto has not missed a Terry Fox Run since then. This year, for the fourth time, she will be the head organizer of Smithville version, September 14 at West Lincoln Arena.

"I've never missed one since 1980," said Peto, a Farewell Crescent resident. Up until four years ago, she had participated in the Oakville charity race before moving to West Lincoln.

She provided the legs to get the local inspirational event on the ground in 2004.

Terry Fox is still the inspiration for Peto. Up until last year, she had been fortunate enough to escape the clutches of cancer in her life.

"Last year was the first year that I've known someone who was diagnosed, so I've been extremely fortunate," she said. "I've never had to see the suffering first hand."

This year's race will take place at 11 a.m., with a five-kilometre run heading out from there.

Registration is at 10:30 a.m. and pledge forms are currently available at Giant Tiger, Dell Pharmacy and the Township office.

Peto said volunteers are always welcome, especially high school students looking to achieve some community hours.

She is available for more information at 905-308-2470.

This Saturday, a fundraiser will take place at the Smithville Garage. A car wash will occur at 8:30 a.m.

"It was such a success last year," says Peto. "It got the word out better than anything else."

Lemonade and cookies will be available, courtesy of her young son, Sabastien.