This year I've committed to raising $6,000.00 for cancer research by riding in the 2023 Pan-Mass Challenge. Since losing my mom in 2021, part of my grieving process has been to find ways to remain close to her and honor her with my life. I am excited to ride my mom's bike along the same 168-mile course she rode in the Pan Mass Challenge 4 years ago. On the first weekend in August, I will join thousands of cyclists in the PMC, an annual bike-a-thon that raises money for research and care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) in Boston.

Everyone who knew my mom was inspired by her, including herself. She rode her bike for 2 days straight in the midst of summer after undergoing surgery to remove two thirds of her lung. I remember the day she wrote a reflection about her ride with tears in her eyes and it's one of the most valuable keepsakes I have to remember her by. I know this was one of her proudest accomplishments. When it felt like no words could soothe her when times were tough, this memory reminded her of her own strength.

I am honored to have been selected as one of the LUNGSTRONG scholarship recipients receiving $3,000 toward my fundraising goal. My goal is to raise $3,000 more on my own, of which 100% of every dollar will be donated to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. I appreciate your support and contribution to this celebration of my mom's strength, resilience, and gratitude throughout her battle with lung cancer.

Every donation brings us closer by the mile and buys a little extra time for other families fighting cancer.