This August, I’m riding in my second Pan-Mass Challenge, more grateful than ever. Last year was very difficult for me physically, but the inspiration I experienced as we biked through crowds of survivors, and friends/family who had faced the loss of loved ones due to cancer was like nothing I had ever experienced. This year I have new motivation, as all those who are close to me who I rode for last year are now gratefully on the other side of treatment. Both of my aunts, and my teens' father, Paul, are now survivors. In addition, last year we kept the news private since we were in the middle of the struggle, but Joel had been recently diagnosed and was evaluating treatment options. I am so happy to say that he is now cancer-free, and I am incredibly grateful for the care he received at Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

Almost every day though I hear stories of people who are dealing with cancer. Today while walking the dogs, our neighbor told us her 29-year-old daughter is battling brain cancer. The PMC isn’t just a bike ride—it’s a mission. Together, we raise critical funds so that cancer research can continue making miracles possible.

If you feel moved to support this journey, your donation—big or small—helps us get closer to a world without cancer. Thank you for believing in this cause and cheering me on.