Stefanie Barber didnB次元官网网址檛 think sheB次元官网网址檇 be back to racing at this time last year.

In 2010, the 27-year-old with spina bifida underwent five surgeries. Memories of that time, and the chronic pain, leave her fighting back tears, but it also highlights the importance of competitive sport in her life.

The surgeries, she said, were touch and go. B次元官网网址淣ot in terms of survival, but in terms of quality of life.B次元官网网址�

At stake was her place on Team B.C. Para-Athletics.

She credits her regimen of training for her speedy recovery.

People underestimate what exercise can do for you, she said. B次元官网网址淭raining really mentally puts you in a better place. When I train, nothing else matters. ItB次元官网网址檚 just me and the road and it takes away everything that may be bothering you.B次元官网网址�

On Sunday, Barber was the only registrant in the Terry Fox Run to race in a wheelchair.

Racing a route on wheels amid a sea of runners is always a great experience for Barber.

For one thing, sheB次元官网网址檚 faster than those of foot. Barber finished the race in 20 minutes. And rather than feeling self-conscious about her difference, Barber loves the exposure.

B次元官网网址淧eople with disabilities can get out and be involved with community events, and feel like they belong,B次元官网网址� she said. B次元官网网址淚t really is an eye opener for kids. They can see the potential of everybody.B次元官网网址�

ItB次元官网网址檚 a message Terry Fox himself brought to a generation of Canadians by attempting to run across the country despite having lost a leg to cancer. While Fox died before Barber was born, his legacy reached her indirectly.

B次元官网网址淩ick Hansen was inspired by Terry Fox to do his Man in Motion World Tour and IB次元官网网址檓 inspired by Rick Hansen,B次元官网网址� she said.

Barber dreams of making Team Canada for the 2016 Summer Paralympics.

B次元官网网址淭erry always talked about hope and I live on hope,B次元官网网址� she said. B次元官网网址淭hatB次元官网网址檚 gotten me through some pretty tough times.B次元官网网址�

This year, the Victoria Terry Fox Run attracted 850 runners and volunteers, and raised  $27,000, plus $12,600 through the coinciding Great Canadian Hair-do event.