I'm a proud first-time participant in the Pan-Mass Challenge – a bike-a-thon that raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country.

Since its founding in 1980, PMC riders have raised more than $1 billion for lifesaving cancer research, treatment and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, one of the country's top cancer care facilities. The PMC is making a difference in the lives of patients at Dana-Farber and around the world. The funds I will raise will support the innovative work of research-scientists, doctors, and nurses, in the development of different treatments and cures for cancers and other related diseases.

First and foremost, I am riding in memory and honor of Charlie Marques, my father, and Lola Castilla Gutierrez, my aunt; both of whom succumbed to the illness that is cancer. Throughout Charlie's diagnosis he remained steadfast and unwaveringly hopeful that he would be able to overcome this bump in the road and continue to live. Although he received some of the best care, it was simply not enough.

I ride for my friends, and friends-of-friends, who have also been impacted by cancer.

I ride for the future: for greater advances in the medical field, specifically in research and the success of clinical trials.

But most importantly, I ride to remain hopeful like my father.

100 percent of every dollar I raise will go directly to Dana-Farber, meaning that your donation has a real impact! Please consider donating to My PMC fundraising and help me reach my fundraising goal.