In 2001 my dad was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In 2009 he was diagnosed with CNS lymphoma. In 2013 he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. In April of 2016 his symptoms returned and he relapsed again. The doctors and nurses at DFCI continued to be caring and supportive while we were going through this. Their knowledge in treatment gave us 16 years with him since his initial diagnosis! On July 31st, 2017 he peacefully lost his battle with cancer and has now earned his angel wings. He rode in the PMC from 2010-2015. The Pan-Mass Challenge was the most positive thing that came out of his cancer diagnosis.
My dad rode Sturbridge to P-Town from 2010 to 2013, I joined him for 2014 and 2015, and he watched me cross the P-Town finish line in 2016. I rode Sturbridge to P-Town in 2017, four days after he passed away from Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I started working as a part-time intern at the Pan-Mass Challenge in November 2017. I was offered a full time professional head staff position as the Fundraising Coordinator and Team Captains Program Coordinator on June 1st, 2018. Working here has surpassed my wildest dreams! As of today the PMC has raised over $831 million for Dana Farber. I am so humbled to be able to work for an organization that does so much for cancer research and patient care.
Although I am not on the road any more, I am still fundraising in memory of my dad with my team, Team Otto. My cousin still rides and any funds donated to my page will also help her achieve her fundraising minimum.
My dad loved the PMC. It was his celebration of life every first weekend of August. He fought for us so I will continue to fight for him. Help us give back to the hospital that gave us so much, if you are not able to give at this time please share our story and know how much we appreciate the support we have been given over the years.
-Love, Jessica
https://youtu.be/mwSCJ4qJbxE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FAmtw2V1zI&feature=share
