This summer, along with my two best friends, I will be riding almost 200 miles in an effort to bring awareness and raise money for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dana-Farber is world-renowned for its clinical research and plays a major role in shaping national cancer care guidelines. Just last year, the PMC Challenge raised a record-breaking $75 million—all toward the goal of providing the best care, treatments, and research for its patients.

It's disheartening that someone is considered lucky not to be affected by cancer in some way. Whether it’s experiencing it personally or watching a friend or family member fight, at times, an unwinnable battle, cancer impacts the lives of many in countless forms. Personally, my grandfather, great aunt, and numerous family friends have faced this fight. Most recently, my great aunt lost her battle with a rare form of brain cancer. A loss like that creates a ripple of grief in families, touching households in ways few expect.

I’m clearly not a doctor, but in an effort to do what I can, I’ve set a goal to raise $6,000—all of which will go directly to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Hopefully, one day, everyone can be considered lucky.

Thank you.