This upcoming weekend, more than 6,500 cyclists, including myself, will clip into their pedals to participate in the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC). Together, we will raise funds for research and patient care at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) in Boston. This year marks my 30th year volunteering and my 10th year riding in the PMC.

Every time I write this letter, I'm reminded of why I've been committed to this cause for so long. Cancer has touched so many of our lives—whether personally or through family, friends, or colleagues. It's a ruthless and indiscriminate disease.

While the list of those who have bravely fought and won grows, so does the list of those beginning their battles. The encouraging news is that events like the PMC provide essential funding for Dana-Farber, helping to improve the odds in these battles and bringing us closer to a cure.

I'm especially inspired by the memory of my mom, Debbie Barrett, who lost her battle with cancer 15 years ago. Her journey began in 1995 when she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The lifesaving treatments developed at Dana-Farber gave us more precious years with her. In 2006, she faced another battle, this time with breast cancer. Despite her strength and courage, the cancer metastasized, and we lost her on January 8, 2009. I am eternally grateful for the research and treatments funded by Dana-Farber, which extended our time together.

This year, I'm committed to riding and raising $7,500 for the PMC and Dana-Farber. The PMC has raised more money for charity than any other single event in the country, surpassing $1 billion since 1980. This incredible achievement is due to the collective efforts of people who care deeply about finding a cure.

I hope I can count on your support. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. 100% of your contribution goes directly to Dana-Farber.

Please join me in this fight by donating.