Dear Family and Friends,

Thank you. I can’t say it enough and, honestly, just typing it out hardly feels adequate. I wish there was a font that could convey the true depth of that thank you - something that would make it clear that that thank you is dipped in chocolate, wrapped in hugs and has an invisible “i” in it just so that there’s something to dot with a heart.

Seriously though, it’s hard to express how grateful I am for all of the support you’ve shown me and my family over the years. Your kindness and encouragement helped immensely in those difficult times. We are incredibly lucky to have you in our lives.

As you know, I became involved with the Pan-Mass Challenge to support my dad as he battled cancer. I was originally drawn to the ride not only because of the incredible contribution it makes to cancer care and research, but also because biking has always been central to my family. Every vacation we took growing up was planned around bike trail locations, and memories of racing my dad down straightaways will always be some of my fondest.

So when my dad was diagnosed with cancer, it really seemed only natural that I would support him by doing what we’d always done- biking.

My 5th ride, however, fell only 3 days after his passing, and for the first time I faced the prospect of riding not in his support, but in his memory. Exhausted from those final weeks, I wasn’t sure that I would have the physical or emotional strength to complete the 200 mile ride.

But then I started to hear from all of you. You told me that you believed in me, that you hoped I’d still ride. You showed your support through donations and cards. You shared my donation link for me when I couldn’t find the words to write a letter like this. You got me to that starting line. And there, with your support behind me, and 5,000 riders at my side, I found my strength.

While my dad's fight is over, the war against cancer wages on. That is why, this summer, I will be returning for my 17th PMC. This year I will be riding in memory of my dad, in support of all those who are still fighting, and in hope that someday none will have to.

To contribute, please click on the donations tab on this page. Donations of any size are appreciated.

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.

Sincerely,

Danielle

My Links

Sandra's Donation Page

D and Les Ride Over Cancer!

Les's Donation Page

Danielle's PMC profile