I’m a proud supporter of the Pan-Mass Challenge, riding 189 miles and achieving a fundraising goal of $6,000 because it is leading the charge to beat cancer. In fact, last year, 100% of rider-raised revenue went directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure. This year, I ride with someone especially close to my heart.

This year I ride especially for Concetta Bertone, my godmother, who passed away shortly after PMC 2024. Concetta battled cancer on and off for decades—through relapses and remissions, surgeries and recoveries. Her strength over the years was quiet but unwavering. She faced her battles with dignity, grit, and grace—never letting cancer define who she was. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit, love, and example remain. I ride this year in memory of Concetta, for the long journey she walked, and for everyone still walking theirs.

I also ride for my father, Bill Neal, who passed away in 2018 after a long-term battle with colon cancer. Despite the pain and frustration from both the treatments and the disease, he continued to be a great father, husband, and friend to the best of his ability. If he was scared from the prognosis or discomforted by the chemo, he never showed it—aside from turning up the heat well into the summer to take the nip out of the air. Whether those around him described him as brave, strong, or downright stubborn at times, he engaged his cancer in a way that was true to himself and an inspiration for me to watch through the tough days, and now reflect back on. The delivery of care by the medical staff at all levels was unrivaled, and I am honored to ride in the name of Bill Neal and the healthcare community that supported him during his sickness.

In 2021, my close friend and colleague, Heather Budd, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and passed away inside of eight months. Heather had a spark, passion, compassion, and energy that inspired everyone around her. Whenever I presented her with a problem or challenge, she would, without hesitation, roll up her sleeves and start dissecting the issue. She would build solutions and explore all combinations and permutations until an answer emerged. I remember one conversation we had back in 2019 when we decided that our investment portfolios were finally in order and we could call ourselves “responsible adults.” Then Heather said to me, “What if we do all the right things to set ourselves up for a great future and then don’t get the time to enjoy it?” The prophetic nature of that moment saddens me to no end, and I am honored to ride in the name of Heather Budd.

In 2021, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, she is doing an outstanding job. She has completed countless trips to New Haven and New London for various services, and her bravery is extraordinary. Connie Neal is a cancer survivor. This ride is my small part to honor her courage, and the incredible support of the healthcare community who have guided her through this demanding journey.

Each mile I ride is for them—and for a future where fewer families have to face these kinds of losses. Thank you for supporting me, and for supporting the mission to end cancer.