July 2025 Fundraising Update

This is an update I never wanted to write. After four months of fighting with incredible courage, my uncle Larry passed away on June 14th from pancreatic cancer.

Now, more than ever, I’m committed to fundraising for cancer research—so that others facing this diagnosis have more time, better treatment options, and real hope. I will ride in his honor this year.

To my friends and family,

On August 2nd and 3rd, I’ll be riding 163 miles from Wellesley to Provincetown in the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC)—a two-day journey that raises critical funds for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and its life-saving cancer research and care.

This year, I’m riding with a full heart and a clear mission: to support my Uncle Larry, who was recently diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer.

Larry is one of the strongest, most hard-working people I know. He’s fiercely dedicated to his family, always willing to lend a hand, and can make you laugh until you cry. He has huge heart and, on top of that, makes the best cappuccino I’ve ever had. Watching someone so full of life face this disease has been heartbreaking, but also a reminder of why I ride.

I’m riding for him—and for all the people facing difficult-to-treat cancers. Pancreatic cancer is notoriously aggressive, but with continued funding and research, we can give patients like my uncle more time, more options, and more hope.

Alongside my mom, cousin Taylor, and aunt Dani, I’ll also be riding in memory of others we’ve lost:
– My uncle Joel, Taylor’s dad and Dani’s husband, who passed away 20 years ago
– My aunt Elaine, who died nearly 10 years ago
– Our beloved friend John Campbell, who passed away this past December at 57 after a two-year battle with cancer

Thinking of Uncle Larry, and of all those we’ve loved and lost, gives me the strength and determination to take on every mile of this challenge.

The PMC is unique in that 100% of every rider-raised dollar goes directly to Dana-Farber. My goal is to raise $7,500 and I’d be so grateful for your support.
Here’s how you can help:

Donate: Visit my fundraising page at http://profile.pmc.org/AS0341—every dollar truly makes a difference.

Share: Spread the word and help me reach more people.

Support: Follow my ride and cheer me on as I ride with love, loss, and hope in every mile.

Thank you for standing with me and my family. Together, we can bring light into some of life’s darkest moments—and help create a future without cancer.

With gratitude,
Ali Sylvester

ASYLVES1@gmail.com
115 Fairview Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801
http://profile.pmc.org/AS0341