This year marks my 12th Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) ride. In the past, I’ve shared that I ride to support the PMC’s mission: raising essential funds for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. While that mission remains close to my heart, this year’s ride carries a deeper, very personal meaning.

I’m riding for my vibrant 55-year-old sister, Julie—a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend—who is currently battling pancreatic cancer under the incredible care of the Dana-Farber team. Yes, cancer has once again touched our family. Now more than ever, we are channeling all of our strength, support, and positive energy to help Julie fight—and win—this battle, just like my father, cousin, and nephew did before her.

This August, I’ll be riding the traditional 162-mile route from Wellesley to Provincetown over two days, joined by my son Cameron and Julie’s son, Ryan. Our support crew will be strong—Kathy, Kyle, Brooke, Alex Peahl, a toddler, and two babies—cheering us on at the start in Wellesley, meeting us in Bourne at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and celebrating with us at the finish in Provincetown.

I’ve always believed there are two big challenges every PMC rider faces before hitting the road: the physical/mental training and the fundraising. It’s your support—through donations, encouragement, and love—that fuels my resolve and keeps me coming back every year.

Over the past 11 years, I’ve been deeply grateful for the generous contributions and heartfelt support I’ve received. As in previous rides, I’ll be flying penguins above my helmet, each one bearing the name of a donor’s loved one. Penguins were a favorite of my daughter-in-law’s mother, and this has become our special way to honor and remember those touched by cancer.

My 2025 PMC journey has begun, and I hope you’ll join me in supporting the incredible doctors, researchers, and staff at Dana-Farber, who are making breakthroughs in the fight against cancer—every single day.

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