Why I Ride: A Journey Toward Hope and Healing

This year, I lace up my shoes, hop on my bike, and pedal for a cause that’s far bigger than me. The Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) isn’t just a ride—it’s a commitment, a chance to honor those we’ve lost, support those still fighting, and fuel the search for a cure. As one of the largest athletic fundraising events in the country, the PMC raises more money for cancer research and patient care than any other event, making every mile count. And this year, I ride because I believe in the power of hope, resilience, and the collective strength of our community.

A Legacy of Strength and Loss

I ride for my grandmother, Jane, a breast cancer survivor who lived to 92. Her battle with cancer wasn’t easy, but she showed us all what true strength looks like. Even in her toughest moments, she never gave up. I carry her spirit with me every time I climb onto my bike, knowing that every pedal stroke honors her life and the lessons she taught me about resilience.

I ride for Midge, a dear friend in Jackson, WY, who is battling cancer. Midge’s fight is ongoing, and while the outcome is uncertain, she faces each day with grace and strength. Her journey reminds me that every dollar raised has the potential to extend a life, to give more time for laughter, love, and memories with family and friends.

And I ride for Michael, an active duty Naval officer who was diagnosed with cancer last year. Michael, a man who once worked out for hours a day, faced radiation and chemo with a strength that few could understand. His treatment was brutal, leaving him unable to walk, talk, or eat for a time. But after months of fighting, Michael is slowly regaining his strength—running again, lifting weights, and enjoying life with his wife Katie and three young daughters, Rosie, Amelia, and Everly. Michael’s recovery reminds me that cancer doesn’t just affect the person fighting it; it touches everyone they love. When his first post-treatment PET scan came back with some good news and a tiny bit of uncertainty, Michael shared a lesson we all need to remember: cancer isn’t “gone” just because there’s no sign of it today. It’s a constant battle, a world of “for now.”

I also ride for those who didn’t make it. I ride for Kayur Shah, whose story of courage inspires me. Kayur was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer, while also battling the autoimmune disease, Scleroderma. He chose Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as his treatment center, not just to fight for himself, but to be there for his young son, Lucas, who was just 5 years old at the time. Kayur’s story is one of extraordinary bravery and love, but sadly, he lost his fight in 2019. Team BBS (Brown Boy Strong) was formed in his memory, and every year we ride for him and countless others who have fought cancer with everything they had. Together, we’ve raised over $367,000 for Dana-Farber, and that number keeps growing, thanks to the strength of Kayur’s memory and the generosity of people who believe, like I do, that every dollar counts

Closer by the Mile

The Pan-Mass Challenge is a movement. Since its founding in 1980, it has raised over $1 billion to fund cancer research, clinical trials, and patient care. Every dollar I raise goes directly to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, supporting the groundbreaking work being done by doctors, scientists, and nurses who are changing the future of cancer care.

When I ride, I know I’m not just helping today’s cancer patients; I’m riding for those who will be diagnosed tomorrow, next year, and beyond. Every mile I pedal brings us closer to a cure. And with every donation, you too are part of this vital work. You are helping fund the treatments that will make life easier for patients like Michael, Midge, and Kayur’s family. You’re supporting the research that could one day save lives.

Why I Need Your Support

I’m asking for your help because the fight against cancer is far from over. One hundred percent of the funds I raise go directly to Dana-Farber, meaning every penny makes a difference. Your donation is an investment in the future—one where cancer is no longer a death sentence but a disease that we can treat, cure, and ultimately prevent.

Together, we can bring us Closer by the Mile to a world without cancer.

How You Can Help

Please consider donating today. Whether it’s $10, $50, $100, or more, your contribution can change the life of a cancer patient, their family, and their community. Every dollar you give helps fund innovative research and treatments at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and every dollar brings us closer to a cure.

Donate Today: At the links above

Thank you for being part of this journey, for supporting me, and for standing with so many others whose lives have been affected by cancer. Your generosity means more than I can put into words. Together, we will ride toward a world where cancer no longer holds us back.

With gratitude,
Alicia
Proud PMC Rider