August 5, 2024
Part 1 of my PMC journey is complete. Day 0 went very well, with no mechanical issues. After mile 48, I was in no man's land since I hadn't ridden over 45 miles this year. My legs and body definitely felt it, especially with a pain behind my right eye during a substantial climb. The heat and humidity were notable, and I realized I need to double my water intake. Hydration is key.
Upon arriving at the Sturbridge Host Center, we jumped into the small pond to cool off. A thunderstorm arrived shortly after, so it was good to be inside the Sturbridge Host Hotel for the opening ceremonies that night.
I've changed my image to the torch from the lantern, inspired by Chris McKeown's speech at the opening ceremonies. His description of the collective spirit including you was very powerful and described what I often hope to. Thanks for joining me in this fight! Thank you all; this journey will continue until the end of September. I've also added photos of Todd and me, and Jim and me, to the gallery below.
Link to PMC Opening Ceremonies
20:09 Seconds into the video
The 2024 Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) Opening Ceremonies highlighted the collective spirit and efforts of participants, volunteers, and sponsors in fighting cancer. Chris McKeown, a 39-year PMC rider and the first PMC employee, emphasized the greater impact of the community's unified efforts, stating, “There's something about the collective spirit of all these riders, donors, volunteers, sponsors, onlookers. The phrase that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts perfectly captures the feeling, but all this humanity that is achieving something far beyond the sum of the individual efforts.”
26 minutes into the video
Cigall Kadoch, Ph.D., an associate professor at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator, has been supporting the PMC and leading PMC-funded research for eight years. She discussed a pivotal discovery made possible by PMC funding, which would not have received typical academic research funding due to its high risk and bold nature. She equated gene expression to the melody of life, explaining that any defect in this process can lead to cancer. Kadoch's work has enabled a mechanistic understanding and therapeutic targeting of factors controlling gene expression, leading to new therapies now in clinical trials. These advancements represent significant steps forward in cancer treatment, with the potential to revolutionize the field.
1 hr 6 minutes into the video
Charlie Sylva, who has raised over $300,000 for the PMC and is known for his work on This Old House, shared his dedication to the cause, riding every year.
The ceremony also explained how corporate sponsorships ensure that 100% of donations go directly to patient treatment and research at Dana-Farber.
July 31, 2024
I signed up to participate in the Pan Mass Challenge this year as a virtual rider. In January, when I considered taking on this challenge, I chose not to sign up at that time due to the ailing health of my mom and Angie's dad. It has been a long road this spring. Just a few weeks ago, we celebrated Abby's marriage to Brady; it was a wonderful celebration, and now I have two great sons-in-law. We are expecting more good news in the fall. Given the way this year unfolded, I was relieved that I did not take on the full commitment in January, but now I feel called to pick up this important work.
I will participate in Day 0 with the team, riding from Lenox to Sturbridge. The great news is that all rides are filled up with many riders joining the cause. I received a phone call from my friend Matt this fall, informing me that our high school friend Todd Powers had passed away. Todd was a good friend with a great laugh who enjoyed car racing and loved his family. Through Matt, I had the good fortune to get reacquainted with Todd when he visited the Berkshires a few times before the pandemic. I was saddened to hear that Todd was taken away much too early by cancer.
My efforts this year will be in memory of Todd and my friend Jim Nykorchuk, who passed this spring. I used to teach with Jim at Taconic High School, where he was a phenomenal mentor and friend as a fellow Culinary Teacher. I often think of Jim and how he would approach things as a teacher. Joan Morrow, who passed in January, was a good friend and supporter of this ride. I will miss Joan’s celebratory correspondence. Also, Andy, an avid rider and caretaker of all things with four legs, has left a void. I am grateful to have had all of these people in my life and am richer for it.
I am also riding in support of the many friends and colleagues who are fighting the fight, and my thoughts will be with my parents as well. This commitment I cannot do alone, so I ask once again: would you consider donating to my ride through the Virtual Rider window on the PMC page or through my PMC Unpaved window?
Thanks again for all the support over the years. I know you have your reasons, as you have taken up this fight many times before. With over $10,000 donated last year and $78,000 donated over the years, I can't thank you enough for all your support.
Thanks for joining me in this fight. You can donate through the links at the top of this page or through my Unpaved window. Either way, 100% of every dollar raised will go to the PMC and to Dana Farber to fight cancer and research improved treatments.
With faith and gratitude, Dan
or donate to anyone on our team
August 3, 2023
A huge thankyou to all my present and past sponsors. We are about to hit a milestone of 75,000 dollars raised and it looks like we will exceed this years goal of 6306 to get us there. Every dollar raised goes to fight cancer through research and treatment. Thanks so much! I will be in touch after the ride.
July 28, 2023
I managed to get a few rides in this week, one was a 96 Mile ride on Tuesday followed by a very tired group ride on Wednesday. I also compteted two 50 mile rides last weekend all in a last minute effort to regain some fitness to complete this years PMC. This morning I composed a Letter to the Editor:
Pan-Mass Challenge
August 5th and 6th Local Riders will be participating in the Pan Mass Challenge to raise money to fight Cancer. 100% of all rider raised dollars go toward research and treatment of cancer through the Dana Farber Cancer Research Center. Evan Hickok (traveling from the United Kingdom to participate), Fredrick Knight, Suzanne Merritt, Kevin Mitts, Jonathan Molk, Sam Smith, Craig Smith, and Paul Smyth are participating as Forza-G Pan Mass Team Members in the 2023 Pan Mass Challenge. In addition, friend Richard Simons will complete his 10th PMC this year. Forza-g has raised $483,000 so far in 2023. Would you consider joining us in this fight? We ride, but you make the difference. Even if a rider has reached their fundraising goal, please still consider donating, or as we say pile it on. To find out more about why we ride or to sponsor us Google the riders name and PMC. We are grateful to all our sponsors that make this a possibility, Thank you!
July 23, 2023
After returning from San Francisco I participated in the Wednesday Night Group ride. Due to my spiratic riding this year and carrying extra weight I tend to be the last one up the hills. The group extended a gesture of kindness waiting for me at the top of Bailey Road and Route 20.
On Saturday I rode with my friend Dave Boyce and we rode over to Chatham N.Y. . We took some new roads that led to a nice adventure. We rode 50 miles, when I got back I grappled with the idea of doing twice that amount for three days. Any mile right now will be helpful to participate in this challenge and I will work on some fundraising correspondence. Thank You all so much for donating to this ride.
July 19, 2023
My goal is the number it would take to reach $75000 in total fundraising. I am incredibly grateful for the gifts that have been given. It has been challenging to get myself to swing my leg over the bike but I feel fortunate to have a century under my belt with friend Matt Behnke on Saturday July 8. I hope to get pedaling and put in a few long rides before the event. Thankyou so much for Joining the fight, and sharing your kindness and your resources.
July 5, 2023
A saturday training ride took my friend Rich Simons and I to Camp Chesterfield now called Tolgy wood. The ride entailed over 5000 feet of climbing and over 6 hours in the saddle. The shade seemed to be in our favor with roads that wove along the rivers. The ride was quite an adventure and I was glad to get some miles in after not being on the bike very much this spring and early summer. Donations are coming in on a regular bases. This years totals reaching over $2000 and a Grand total over $70,000. Thank you for making a difference in the fight against cancer.
June 26, 2023
Thankyou for joining the fight. Below is a copy of my fundraising letter for this year. My goal this year is to raise as much as I can to fight Cancer and improve research for Dana Farber. Reading further would give you some of my history with this event.
Over eleven years ago, I was first inspired to ride in the Pan Mass Challenge to raise money for Cancer Research and Treatment after the passing of my sister, Loralee. As my experience with this event grows, the cycling seems less significant and the gifts given by our community more meaningful. Your gifts have totalled $68,694 over the eleven years, and many of you have chosen to support my rides time and time again. I know that cancer has deeply affected many of your lives, and has brought us together to work toward a better future with more effective treatments. I hope you will consider joining me for the first time, or the twelfth time, in this endeavor to make cancer a thing of the past.
100% of every rider-raised dollar supports the Dana Farber Cancer Foundation to improve research and treatments for cancer patients. Your gifts to Dana Farber have inspired me, provided healing and given me a sense of purpose during difficult times. I do the ride, but YOU make the difference.
Every gift is generous and propels us forward. Donations vary in size from a few dollars to many thousands of dollars, but they add up to life changing progress. Last year was a record fundraising year for our ride at a total of $11,210. The PMC raised a record $69,000,000 in 2022, bringing the total funds raised since 1980 to $900,000,000. Those numbers are incredible testaments to your generosity, my friends.
As I walk through my days I am reminded again and again how common cancer is in our lives.
My friends and colleagues have told me about their struggles and my immediate family has been touched recently as well. My mother-in-law, Marilyn, passed away a few weeks after I signed up for this year's PMC. In her final days, she was sent to Brigham and Women's Hospital, an affiliate of Dana Farber. I was glad to know she would receive the top level of care that you have helped to provide. Marilyn was an amazingly giving person. She had a huge loving impact on her family. She joked and made those around her feel comfortable until the end. I was fortunate to have her in my life. Because of my close contact with cancer patients, this letter has been crafted deep in my heart. Now I reach out to you with a written word to ask you, “Will join me in this fight?”
While on a recent ride I was reflecting on the PMC, and feeling a sense of gratitude. In this state, my thoughts mingled with the words of the song Thankyou, by Led Zeppelin. “Inspiration is what you are to me.” I think of the journey we have shared together, and I am grateful. In the very essence of that musical line, Robert Plant elegantly connects inspiration with gratitude. In that spirit, I hope you might consider targeting some of your philanthropic dollars to the Pan Mass Challenge. Your only risk is that you might receive a fundraising letter from me for the next twelve years.
January 22, 2023,
Feeling like I had to consider taking on the Pan-Mass Challenge this year seriously I went a week and a half without registering. The message I was sending to myself is that I needed to be in the right place. During that time three different conversations about Cancer came to the surface with friends at work, conversations on how it was affecting them and their families. Dana Farber was the place they were getting their treatment. I signed up the evening of the third conversation remembering the conversation about a friend's daughter and her upcoming second battle with Cancer. Coincidentally as I went to bed that night I remembered it was January 19, which is the day that Loralee passed eleven years ago. And so begins my twelfth Pan-Mass Challenge. I am going to set my goal at 10,000 dollars this year.
October 16, 2022
Thanks to your generosity in joining me in the fight against Cancer 2022 was our (mine and yours) ride the highest fundraising year over the eleven years. You have kept the lantern burning brightly. Thank you so much for joining the fight. Words can not tell you what an honor it is to participate in the Pan-Mass Challenge. As my friend prepares to go to Dana Farber I rest in the comfort of the level of care she is going to receive there.
August 11, 2022
You and I joined this fight together to make a difference in the lives of those who face cancer. Your giving has exceeded my imagined goal, $6600, the second highest fundraising year, my ride has generated $8730. The gratitude I feel for you joining me in this endeavor is a highlight of my year. With your generosity and giving, you are making a difference. Your commitment to this cause is humbling.
(This video is about 3 minutes long, then spools into the weather report, for a laugh, observe the humidity report, the third video about Team Beans is a bit more emotional but emphasizes the heavier reasons why we ride.)
Magical moments over the 300 miles include running into a young man who was at my daughter's wedding. All the miles where the pedaling was light, especially in the morning air. The cheers of all the supporters lined along the route; when looking into their eyes, I see they have their reasons. Watching Matt and Evan ride in their first PMC. Ethan at the Nickerson rest stop; you may remember Ethan I first met him when he was 9; he is 20 now. I will upload his photo onto my rider page gallery. Beautiful moments come to mind are the bike path along the Bourne Canal, the beautiful communities in Southern Massachusetts, and the sandy dunes as we approached Province town. I was looking forward to the ride this year, and it did not disappoint.
Riders experienced heat, Fatigue, and Mechanical issues. A 3:30 wakeup was required Saturday morning, oof. Forza G found a way to overcome a bearing issue in a first year's rider wheel, and incredibly the bike shop had the parts required. There were times in the afternoon when extra hydration and rest stops were required. The heat was stifling near the Cornfields past North Hampton and on the approach to Bourne, but it was relieved with a salty dip in the Bay on Saturday Evening. After completing the ride, I took a bus to Sturbridge, a four-hour bus ride; eerily, no one spoke a single word.
Forza G provided a beautiful tribute in memory to Ginger Smith, moved luggage across the state, and provided rider support and sustenance. A morning Acai power bowl was provided before the Friday rollout by Brew Berry at Lenox Fit. The team organized hotel logistics and a Charter bus to and from the hotel Friday night, they also provided morning coffee and breakfasts. Day 0 is possible because of all the logistics Forza G support handles. It was so good to see all the teammates in person.
I thank you for joining me and for sharing your resources to make this ride a possibility, and for making this the largest fundraiser of its kind. The Pan-Mass is on track to achieve 1 Billion dollars in total funds over the next two years and has raised 50 million dollars this year, so if you know anyone who wants to join the fight, send’em my way.
Thank you for the Healing, the magic, and for making this ride a possibility,
Daniel Moon
PMC Year 11
413 464 6355
August 3, 2022,
I am in a funny spot where the goal has been met, for which I am genuinely grateful, and thinking, could I reach out, being it is PMC weekend, and do a little more for Cancer Research and Treatment? I have about twenty-four hours left to do what I am going to do. I feel a fundamental dichotomy in feeling whether I should strive beyond the goal or should I turn to simply Thanking all the sponsors so far. But since this is about fighting Cancer, I will strive to go beyond the said goal, so won’t you join us in this fight against Cancer? Donate any amount to make a difference. I will include you in the community of people I reach out to each year during this process.
August 1, 2022, Thank you so much for joining this fight. Your donations to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute have been incredibly generous. This goal is worth achieving and going beyond so please if you are stopping by this page please consider donating any amount. While lining up on Saturday at 5 a.m. around 5000 riders all in the same jersey the thought will humble me that all of the riders had sponsors just like you willing to make a difference. 5000 riders times hundreds of sponsors equal commitment to change.
July 12, 2022
My first long-distance ride yesterday. Seventy-Seven miles with a friend and fellow PMC'er Rich Simons. Good weather and ride the entire way. Preparations were positive and positive riding thoughts. Thanks, sponsors for the momentum you are creating, hold up a mirror, the person you are looking at is the PMC. Spreading the word about the PMC makes the lantern grow brighter.
July 6, 2022,
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Angie points out when our numbers are lining up, for example, when the clock reads 1:11. Perhaps this means it is a good moment to make a wish. I sat down to work on this letter at 5:55 am to tell you I’ll strive to raise $6,600 in my 11th Pan-Mass Challenge in the year 2022. I invite you to join in this effort however you can. I feel fortunate to act as a conduit to your giving which has surpassed $58,000 over the years, and beyond dollars, you have offered gifts of character as well as stories of resilience, and courageousness, all of which have been grounded in generosity.
On August 5th, 6th, and 7th, my team Forza-G and I will ride our bicycles 300 miles from the NY border to Provincetown raising money for cancer research. The Pan-Mass Challenge is one of the largest events to improve cancer research and treatment in the United States combining bicycle riding with fundraising for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. The PMC will raise $66 Million this year, with Forza-G hoping to contribute $600,000. 100% of funds raised by cyclists will go to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
I have always enjoyed riding my bike, so the Pan-Mass Challenge has been the perfect event to channel my energy and share stories of healing and courageousness. I feel gratitude for the grace provided by health care workers as my sister navigated her treatment. Specifically, I feel thankful for the extreme kindness provided by the nurses and doctors to Loralee during her final days. I ride in her remembrance knowing that your contributions are improving outcomes. The ride has also provided a sense of community through your shared stories and your passion to make a difference in the treatment of cancer. John, Barrett’s Dad talked about the immeasurable value of friends and family over the years, those words resonated deeply with me. Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” has inspired me to introduce “PMC Riders On Bikes Getting Coffee (no bike required)”. Feel free to call or text me (413-464-6355) or email me (dmoon6648@gmail.com) to set up a coffee date to talk about the ways this event is important to you or catch up on any topic.
The reason I have been able to participate in this event over the years is through the loving support of my wife who has continued to be flexible about how we celebrate our anniversary after or during PMC weekend. Angie and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary by traveling to Sun Valley Idaho later that week to spend time with Barrett and Sarah. Local Teammates Matt Behnke and Evan Hickok will join the route in person for the first time this year as part of the Forza-G PMC team. You may recall Matt has participated in this event locally but this is the first time he will be doing the full ride. He and Evan will also join me for Day 0 (The NY Border on 102 to Sturbridge), and after the event, Evan will be moving to the United Kingdom, amazingly through this transition, he maintains his commitment to the PMC. If you want to read more about their efforts you will be able to search their rides on the PMC website.
Please consider this letter as simply an appeal and not an obligation – you can help by donating any amount, or also help just by spreading the word. If you know someone who is passionate about fighting cancer please have them search on Google: “Daniel Moon PMC” so they can read about my ride. Donations are accepted through October.
If this event fits into your giving, please consider donating:
Google: Daniel Moon PMC and donate through my PMC page, or
Checks can be written out to “PMC” and mailed to me at 159 Velma Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Be well friends and may the wind be at your back, Dan
A remembrance of Loralee:
In my early twenties and owning my first house, my sister had gotten a job at the phone company making a decent salary and pulled up to my house on a sunny day driving a brand new Purple Ford Probe. I was envious. Her job had benefits. I was comparing my two full-time jobs to her job, and it seemed like she had it made. In the end, the seemingly nice job did not bring her happiness, and the Purple Sports car’s life was eventually cut short by a deep puddle on Melville street.
Later on, Loralee decided to go back to college; her company had offered a small buy-out option from her position. She walked away from what I perceived as a stable life situation towards something that was calling to her. She pursued writing and poetry and found many moments of joy in that work.
In my mind, it seemed like such a risk, but she followed her heart. I was so scared for her as she veered off the secure path, but it was in her passing that I recognized the beauty of this.
June 23, 2022,
Grace, and gratitude, These are words that come to mind when thinking about participating in the Pan Mass. Grace was what I witnessed while my sister was at Baystate Medical Center and kindness poured out through the nurse's hands as she brushed my sister's hair and delivered kind words in difficult moments. Gratitude is what I feel for the folks at Dana Farber who partnered with the staff at Bay State Medical center and for all of my sponsors over the years who have donated thousands of dollars.
Grace. Perhaps it is the sharing of words or holding back tears when doing so seems close to impossible and to watch the nursing staff be so kind at a pinnacle moment and amidst such a desire to muster inner strength.
Gratitude for being able to participate in the PMC for the eleventh year.
I feel healed with all of your support over the years of participating in the PMC. This year I hope to raise as much money as possible to fight cancer. Returning to the event in person will be wonderful this year and I look forward to learning from others, hearing about their experiences and why they continue to contribute, and why you are so passionate about fighting cancer. Please email me your reasons why, or if you would like to learn more about the event contact me: dmoon6648@gmail.com or 413 464 6355. We can talk about the event or simply have a cup of coffee.
Thanks for reading and considering donating and have a blessed day,
Dan
February 13, 2022, I received a phone call yesterday from teammate Matt Behnke asking if he could share my ride and if I had signed up. I appreciate him sharing my page on Facebook since I am still on hiatus from that form of social media though I know it has its pluses. This will be my 11th PMC. My training partner Cosmo and I went for a snow bike ride yesterday where we ran into someone walking their hog. I will include a picture in the gallery. The softer 40 plus degree day was enjoyable riding through the crystallized mashed potatoes.
August 7, 2021, I envisioned a scene out of Forest Gump where hundreds of riders would join Matt and me for our reimagined ride but come the day it was just us. We met in my garage early maybe 6:30 and headed south on South Mountain Road. There is something peaceful about an early morning start, less traffic. Good conversation faded the first twenty miles of Barker Road, the center of West Stock Bridge and Rte 41 to Great Barrington behind us.
Going through the Center of Great Barrington with less traffic is always a gift and once you reach the distinctively different roads of route 7 in Sheffield heading into Connecticut you know you are somewhere else. Some showers hit us there but we continued to roll through the flat roads and when I asked Matt if he had seen the covered bridge (featured in unsolved mysteries for the UFO landing) and he replied No U-turn was required. After getting eaten by mosquitoes we shortened our sightseeing stop and headed back on the road again.
On the long stretch of road, we heard some honking and a white truck pulled us to the side. He was ahead talking to Matt and when I rolled up I saw I recognized the man. It was a fellow PMCer Peter Whitehead. Somehow magically I run into Peter each year at the PMC even though there are thousands of riders. I met Peter years ago when I started group riding with the Housatonic Wheel Club. Peter is an excellent rider and I take it as a sign that even though we did our reimagined route we still managed to run into Peter. Peter was leaving later that day to do the Wellsley route but I think a small part of him wishes he had just ridden locally with us.
There is something amazing about Matt and his 1994 Marin Hybrid that he rides. Twenty-seven years later the bike rolls along steadily and Matt knows exactly how to ride it. After some more pedaling when the fatigue hits and the conversations fade we reached Route 44 Canaan Rd. Hills start to become more substantial and there is one hill that as you approach looks kind of like a wall. Probably ten years ago I was on a ride alone there and near the top of the hill I hear a creaking noise and as I continued the climb and had just passed under a tree it gave way to its hold on the earth and crashed right behind me. The substantial tree now lying motionlessly on the ground I unclipped my foot and looked behind me. An Eastbound Car had to stop and frustrated at his luck made an impatient U-turn. I was mystified that the driver couldn't roll down my window and acknowledge how amazingly lucky I was not to have been crushed by the tree.
Everyone who rides the route with me gets to hear the story. As we roll across another State Line into Millerton Matt and I stopped at a really good Deli for a second time and Split a turkey grinder and an order of my kryptonite (Onion Rings.) Some pleasant conversation and a mid-ride break were welcomed.
Back on Route, we opted to take the bike Path in Millerton which was very pleasant. Rolling across wetlands with expansive bridges and miles of a beautiful Split Rail fence, the tall kind with 3 cross pieces. Recently run we treated to amazing sanctuaries of wildlife on the not so overcrowded rail trail which gave refuge from the sider of Route 22 heading North.
The rail-trail ends and there is a sign that explains the long-term plan to make that rail trail reach Chatham NY. I can't wait for that. Right now I would say that it was about 12 to 15 miles long with some side roads you end up on Rte 22 and we were quickly reminded of the sounds of traffic as a Tanker was having some distress as it rolled past us with building traffic and stalled on top of a small hill. Shortly after that, we stopped for an alternative stop on Rte 22 a Stewarts. We got some Gatorade and met a savvy rider who knew to ask for some cups of crushed ice. Knowing the idea was ingenious I did not follow the cue and was later in a state of dismay by sipping on my warm camel backwater.
We took our trusty right-hand turn on route 23 and began to climb our way up Catamount. It's a pleasant grade for the most part yet a fairly substantial climb where you have to settle in for a substantial climb. Passing the miles along 23 and now at the 60 and 70-mile range under our tires confidence grows that you will complete the ride as we roll towards Egremont and the way back to Great Barrington. We contemplate other ways home but chose to stay the course through a traffic-filled Great Barrington and back to 41. 41 from 76 to 86 miles felt less like a chore today than it did earlier in the summer and at the end where it meets 102 we stopped on a grassy hill where some construction equipment was parked. We discussed our options on how to get to 100 miles in and decided to head to NY state. We talked about life some and rolled over Baker St and a back way to LUVs where we could refill and use the ice trick. As I looked through my Camel Back I realized I had lost my license and credit card and a little cash. We still executed the crushed ice trick. LUVs seemed like an amazing oasis with rolling hot dogs and many options but we stuck to the drinks and Ice and that was nice. We rolled back to the construction equipment in case my lost things were there and Matt called the Stewarts in NY managing his smart equipment expertly and with no avail, my thoughts of an extra 20 miles dissipated and we rolled home. With 104 miles under my belt and 20 minutes on the computer new credit cards and licenses were on the way. Angie asked if I wanted to backtrack and the thought of driving over all the roads with my ancient Subaru quickly gave way for the desire of a pleasant nap.
Once again participating in the PMC greatly has exceeded my expectations. Riding with Matt staying local and still, you have given 5600 dollars this year Bringing the ten-year total over 57000 dollars. For me, this has provided healing, and thinking about the memory of Loralee. For others improved treatment through advanced research. The stories you share and the conviction you show. So amazing. Thanks for making my 10th PMC a possibility.
July 30, 2021, An 80-mile ride designed by friends Sweep and Birk. I had feelings of self-doubt being the slower rider on hills but was treated to magnificent views of Windmills, Mountains, and Rolling Countrysides as we looped through NY state and headed toward Williams Town then dropped down through North Adams. Somewhere around mile 50, I started to feel like I might make the distance though my brain still tried to calculate the magnitude of the remaining climbs in its silent panicky way. We were also treated to a view of old motorcycles along the way. I am going to call this Reimagined ride 2. The logistics for Saturday's ride are we are leaving from my house at 159 Velma Avenue in Pittsfield at 7 a.m. on Saturday. Our goal will be 100 miles ridden for Cancer. Matt will be riding his 90's era hybrid bike so come ride some or all the miles with us. Bring your Banana bike and feel free to fade off the back or launch off the front of this peloton of 2. Every pedal stroke is about fighting cancer and it's not about the ride!
July 27, 2021, On Saturday, July 24 I completed my first century of the year. I will think of it as Reimagined Ride 1 2021. The same route we will be riding on Saturday, August 7. I was joined by Birk and Sweep two expert riders who helped the miles role away in a rhythmic fashion. My body held up pretty well until mile 88, not a bad point for my legs refuse to sustain the same pace so I had no choice but to slow the finish of the hundred miles. There is something very satisfying about getting that first long ride completed. But nothing more satisfying than the feeling of your support. Donations are approaching 55,000 in total funds raised 100% of which goes to benefit the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
On Monday, July 26, I was able to do one of my favorite rides around Mystic and a Sunflower Farm somewhere near there. The ride is one I found in a book years ago. Over the years I have done part or most of that ride most summers probably for as I have PMC'd. I often do this ride right after the PMC and as much as I love the PMC and all the riders I really enjoy the Solitude of this ride. I tried to share some of the photos from the ride.
July 17, 2021
The PMC has been on my mind often as the year has progressed. In a typical year, much of my fundraising has been completed by now, with a wedding on the horizon an up and down school year, I am grateful to be in a place where I can focus on the PMC.
The PMC has been a place of hope and healing and your support and encouragement has been a huge part of it. Over the last decade, you have given me a positive outlet for all I have felt since Loralee's passing. Your surprise donations this year have given me an encouraging nudge.
A friend, perhaps unknowingly set a great example for me about enjoying a beautiful day (on an overcast, cold, and cloudy with ensuing grumpiness), how to be respectful in church, how to share homemade bread, how to give of time and resources, all the time-fighting Cancer. In some ways, it feels that that friend is gone now however in many ways she is not, that example has been set for us to remember and that thread is embedded in many of our lives.
I see hope and I see improvement in treatments. I see will to live and examples of how to live. I see the benefits of research and treatment and care given by hospital workers and I see incredible people everywhere who give of their time and their resources and for that I am grateful. Please consider once again donating to the PMC through my ride.
I will be riding locally again this year with friend Matt Benke and we have chosen my Connecticut, NY loop for Saturday's ride having made my decision to ride reimagined in January of this year when things looked quite different. If you would like more information about the PMC or would like to join Matt and I please contact me at 413-464-6355 or dmoon6648@gmail.com.
August 2, 2020
PMC Rides this year consisted of a Friday ride south to Connecticut and west to NY State. Highlights included the covered bridge featured in Netflix's modern version of unsolved mysteries, a section of Rail trail with beautiful views, and the Scenic Highway I rode along in Connecticut. One street in NY state was named Lackawanna, an ailment I started to suffer from around mile 70.
Saturday I rode with Forza G teammate Matt Behnke, We headed North to Bennington taking Scenic routes by Jiminy Peak. We turned around at the Deer Park in Bennington heading back South and over to North Adams where we took the Rail Trail to get off of the Highway for a bit. While discussing which Route to take Friday night Matt somehow scientifically calculated that a Northern Route would provide the best shade and the ride was shady until the sun was the mid sky.
Now Sunday Morning I am going to try to do some local riding before the rain starts. I thought a lot about Rosalind Szymanski yesterday during the ride who I dedicated this years ride to. My friends Mom who watched over us in our late teens. She was a kind person who always provided hospitality to us regardless of circumstance.
Even during a Pandemic, you have maintained your conviction to fight cancer and provide improved research and treatment to Cancer. The PMC is approaching 30,000,000 for 2020 a positive news during such turbulent times. Thanks as always for everything.
May 16, 2020
After 9 years of participation, 1 year as a virtual rider, and this year we have reached this landmark:
50,000
Apparently nothing can stop your generosity. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
March 24, 2020
With everything being so uncertain right now it is hard to know if there will be a Pan-Mass Challenge this year. I am really at a loss for words. I want to thank everyone for the immense support over the years. I signed up for the ride in January and have not put any effort into fundraising. This will be my ninth year participating and Cancer has touched my friends and their families over the last year, and now there are more fears and uncertainties Corona Virus. I was humbled to see a 250 dollar donation given to my ride with no letters sent and no words spoken. Thank you so much for the surprise donation. Rosalind Arnold will also be in my thoughts this year no matter what happens over the next few months. The PMC has lowered the fundraising minimums required this year due to our latest challenges.
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Please consider donating to my ride. 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar goes to fighting cancer through research and treatment. Dana Farber is an amazing treatment facility and advances in treatment are found all the time. I started riding this ride with the loss of my sister Loralee and every year more reasons ride. My long term goal is to make it to 50,000 dollars. Any donation size is generous and helpful. Even 10 dollars keeps the momentum going.
This year I will be adding these names to the Banners in Province town and Borne.
In memory of:
Gary Lamoureaux
Rich Gitch Sadlowski
and
Becky Vogelheim
In Memory of Gary Lamoureaux and Rich Geech Sadlowski.
May 2019- Talking to my brother in law Bob the other night at my Dad's 80'th Birthday he shared a story of his life long friend that passed recently. It is another story of courage in the face of an unbeatable challenge. His life long friend Rich Geech Sadlowski passed away this spring. When the Doctors were reviewing his symptoms they would ask what care facility he was staying in. When they found out he was still going to work they couldn't believe it. The story inspired coworkers and even warranted a visit from the Admiral, though Rich was unable to show up to work that day. Rich and Bob knew each other since Grammar School.
April 2019- This ride is in memory of Gary Lamoureaux. Gary was a strong supporter of this ride, I knew Gary through volunteering at St Stephens table (local soup kitchen) and church. Gary championed his personal fight against cancer. Regardless of what Gary had going on he always asked about you and your family.
July 29, 2018, Thank you for all the donations to the PMC. Your commitment to change is awesome. 1141 dollars will bring our Seven year total to 40000 dollars.
April 8, 2018 Thanks for considering making a donation. I hope to raise 14681 dollars towards the Pan-Mass Challenge. That number would bring the total to 50,000 dollars. It might take a while to make that type of progress and we won't stop there. We won't stop while we are able to continue with the faith that every dollar raised makes a difference. That the 52 Million dollars raised last year improve research and treatment for Cancer survivors. Please leave your reasons on your donation message as we continue our quest.
August 4, 2017
Thanks for the outpouring of resources to be utilized to find a cure. Your conviction is inspiring and I will carry it with me the entire way. I will try to recapture the essence of the weekend and bring it back to you.
We met as a team last night and the funds raised and feeling of excitement are both high. I feel blessed to have so much support.
If this is your first time on this page please realize that any donation now really propels us forward. $5 makes a difference so please consider donating any amount. We will be rolling out in an hour and a half.
With Gratitude, Dan
June 11, 2017
Some magical things happen while fundraising for the Pan-Mass. One of my graduating seniors gave me a donation with a thank you card. That blew me away. Thanks, Ally
A surprising word of mouth donation came through. Someone heard about what we are trying to do here and donated unsolicited.
Generosity is totally close to 1000 dollars so far on June 11. Many thanks to so many sponsors.
March 31, 2016
Year Number Six
My ultimate vision for fundraising for the Pan Mass is that the funds improve treatment for people fighting cancer and to provide resources to Dana Farber to continue to Research and find solutions.
My Purpose is to reach out to like-minded people that would like to join in the effort by donating to my ride.
Every rider-raised dollar goes to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund.
July 8, 2016,
I was reminded recently by one of my sponsors it is all about the research so don't think you can put it out there too much. This event is one of the reasons that Dana Farber can operate on the level that it does. The extra 45 million per year that the Pan-Mass raises allows them to improve their treatment of patients.
While thanking one of my sponsors recently I thanked him for his donation and the post it note he sent along with it. I save those notes over the years which keeps me going with fundraising efforts and raising money for the ride. He reminded me how far we have come with the treatment of Cancer.
Another sponsor last year said, It's only a matter of time.
June 6, 2016,
This will be my fifth Pan Mass which is happening August 6 and 7th. I have been blessed with a collaborative community that has supported this ride for the previous four years totaling over 24,000 dollars in funds raised. It is my sponsors that motivate me to recommit each year. All rider fund dollars go to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund.
March 31, 2015, This will be my fourth Pan Mass. My goal for this year is to raise 5921 dollars. Friends, colleagues, and family members have been affected from this disease. Every donated dollar goes to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund to fight cancer. A friend found out this month that he has to fight prostate cancer after fighting kidney cancer last year. Raising money for the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber is something I can do. I have been blessed and supported by a community of people that has sponsored this effort the last three years. I dreamed the other night that I was lined up with the thousands of other bike riders and I had done no fundraising. The panic and the realization within the dream is that it is not about the ride. Everyone knows it. It is about an effort to fight cancer. A collaborative movement to say we will do what we can. Every rider makes a commitment to raise 4500 dollars this year.
July 26th, 2014Recently while at a local hospital I watched a woman with a prosthetic leg balance nimbly on her two crutches while waiting for the person behind the desk to help her. One difference at Dana Farber is that they notice when someone is in discomfort and they come to you. Empathy can go a long way when enduring Pain and Suffering. Why do I ride in the Pan-Mass? It gave me something positive to do while experiencing something very trying and difficult in life. Sixty people have sponsored me so far this year and I am hope to generate a few more donations for Dana Farber this week. Does it matter how much you give? Nope, it's not a competition and all donations are considered generous!
July 2nd, 2014
In memory and celebration of a wonderful life of Cathy Carchedi's sister and Dot Lamberts daughter Caroline Bregg.
June 18, 2014While speaking with some of this year's donors it is evident how important this event is to raising money to help fight cancer. I often give my reasons why I have chosen to take on this event. I am grateful for being able to raise the 4300 hundred minimum fundraising goal the last two years and hope to come close to that figure again this year for the Pan-Mass.
Please send special thoughts and prayers for Honey Kurber, sister-in-law Joan Kurber who is fighting her last days of liver cancer. Bill Lyon Brother to Lois NeumannLorraine Lyon Lois’s Sister-in-law prayers for Matt Clark father to Jess and father-in-law to Dustin BoyceIn Memory of Mary Jo Humphrey - Friend and Neighbor to Bill Frazier and Diane Forsythe.
June 6, 2014Year 3 of the Pan-Mass. I have chosen on my website to keep donation amounts private. Please if you choose to give, give an amount that is comfortable. Angie and I have discussed this years ride and we are willing to donate any shortfall of the fundraising goal. I will reach out into the community because I understand that this is a cause that is important to so many.
My sister Loralee passed away from Uterine Cancer on January 19th of 2012. Many things in life have happened over the last two and a half years since she has been gone, some good, some not so good. I am grateful to have the health to ride this ride one more time and hope to participate again in the future.
My friend Richie is doing well post-treatment, I will ride in honor of his fight with cancer.
Another friend Dan Keegan recently underwent an operation for Kidney Cancer. Pre-operation he would come down to have his morning coffee and check and see if I was doing okay. Thanks, Dan for checking on me, while facing your own challenges. Post-operation he looks great and is doing well.
This year I will ride in honor of Dan's fight as well as Carol Jones.
Friend Cricket Cooper has recently been declared Cancer Free after a two-year battle. Awesome.
I will ride in memory of Loralee, Pete Pederson, Heidi Hannon, Dianne Haas, Ester Clark, and Harold Vigeant.
July 25, 2013 This year I will ride in memory of: Loralee Moon Pete Pedersen Heidi Hannon Dianne Haas Ester Clark Harold Vigeant and in Honor of Richie Powers. We will be leaving Lenox next Friday to ride from the N.Y. border on Rte 102 to the tip of the Cape. If anyone has a name they would like to add to the list please send it to me. Please consider supporting my ride to raise money for Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund to fight cancer. Thanks for making this possible. Dan May 2013 Shortly before Christmas Richie, a good friend came to Taconic to let me know he had Intestinal Cancer. Richie also a dad, a husband, and a caterer has had to fight cancer for the last six months while trying to keep all other parts of his life afloat. When he told me shortly before Christmas it was eerily reminiscent of finding out that my sister was sick again before Christmas the previous year. Since that time I have watched Richie endure Chemo Therapy, Radiation and an operation. He is on the other side of his operation and is recovering. His full recovery process is going to take eight months. Richie recently was tested to see if there was Cancer anywhere else and there wasn't. As I have watched Richie go through all of this I have never heard him complain, he never asked why, he just figured out a way to deal with it and still take care of his family. I look forward to seeing Richie return to full health and capacity. Sadly Pete Pedersen passed away summer. I knew only of his fight through my friend Hannah. Pete was again a husband, a father, a brother, and a son. I will ride in memory of Pete and in honor of his family and the truly valiant fight against cancer that they all endured. Pete was surrounded by people who shared his incredible will and shared the difficult fight that he endured. I will ride in memory of my sister Loralee Moon who lost her fight against Cancer January 19th of last year. A month after she was diagnosed with Cancer. This year as I was riding over to a bike race I have done for the last four years called the Tour of the Battenkill, I was tense about competing in the race and something Loralee had done 30 years early helped to ease the tension. As I pulled into Dunkin Donuts to get my extra large coffee I noticed some toilet paper strewn through a tree. My last day of school in fifth grade, over thirty years ago, I had rushed home hoping to make it to a friends graduation party. As I rushed past the kitchen table, past my sister and her friend and ran up the back stairs to my room I was treated to a spider web of string and shaving cream strewn all around the room. I was mad because I was in a hurry and kept knocking things down as I tried to navigate my way through the string. Now that moment of frustration provides a fond memory of my sister and provided me with comfort. Heidi Hannon sister of Mary Gillman passed from cancer. Dianne Haas the mother-in-law to Al and Lois Simonds son passed from cancer. More and more stories are told to me and I will carry these names with me during the ride this year. I will ride in hope that new discoveries can be made about cancer and that Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund can continue to help cancer patients in the compassionate way I witnessed with my sister. July 2012 When I took on this commitment I knew it would be challenging. I am truly touched by people's genorisity. Thanks so much for supporting Dana Farber in the fight against cancer. I am not sure if I can ever thank people enough. The members of my team Forza-G that have helped me raise funds. All of my generous sponsors. Thank you. Please tell me any names of people that you know that have been touched by Cancer. I thought of one of my sisters poems while painting my deck yesterday: True Vocation He decided early in career, as a house-painter, that he only liked to paint the color yellow. Not any yellow but a specific tint he mixed himself, exactly the shade of a buttercup. And he only liked to paint kitchen walls, this buttercup yellow. He refused any other work, he refused to paint any other color. Well, he would paint kitchen cabinest white; he thought white cabinets accented buttercup yellow walls nicely. He didn't get much work but people who wanted yellow kitchens knew exactly who to call. And when he finished painting the perfect yellow kitchen with white cabinets, he could remember his Mother's kitchen and taste the buttered toast of yesterday and he was as happy as Sunday morning. Loralee Moon February 2012 My sister Loralee passed away on January 19, 2012 of Uterin Cancer. She was 44 years old. She had an extremely malignant form of cancer and was diagnosed in early December. Still we were thinking long term. She went into the hospital on January 17th to prepare for Chemotherapy. During that stay in the hospital things took a drastic turn for the worse and she passed away 2 days later. Loralee's courage during these days was amazing and inspiring, always thinking of others before her self. Other losses in our family include Ester Clark, My grandmother who I never got the chance to meet and my Uncle Harold who I miss dearly. I would also like to ride for Pete Pedersen who is Reverend Hannah Anderson's brother. Hannah is the Rector at our church Saint Stephen's in Pittsfield, Mass. Though I don't know Pete I know a bit about his battle with cancer. He has beaten the odds for nine years. The courage Pete has is something I recognized in my sister during her struggle. Always proceeding with hope, courage, and concern for the others around them rather than for themselves. I am not sure where the deep strength comes from but it is mesmerizing and inspiring. Hannah has helped my family and I through these difficult days. Her compassion and understanding were beyond belief. I consider her an inspiration and a close friend. Thanks also to all of the people at Saint Stephen's Church and Taconic High School who provided immeasurable support and the many friends of Loralee. Our visits and care at both Dana Farber, and Bay State Medical Center were beyond the expectation of compassion and caring. Doctor Suzanne Berlin, Dr. Myers, and Dr. Dillon all contributed to the wonderful care Loralee received. Dana Farber cares for so many people with compassion, and expertise.
August 5, 2024
Part 1 of my PMC journey is complete. Day 0 went very well, with no mechanical issues. After mile 48, I was in no man's land since I hadn't ridden over 45 miles this year. My legs and body definitely felt it, especially with a pain behind my right eye during a substantial climb. The heat and humidity were notable, and I realized I need to double my water intake. Hydration is key.
Upon arriving at the Sturbridge Host Center, we jumped into the small pond to cool off. A thunderstorm arrived shortly after, so it was good to be inside the Sturbridge Host Hotel for the opening ceremonies that night.
I've changed my image to the torch from the lantern, inspired by Chris McKeown's speech at the opening ceremonies. His description of the collective spirit including you was very powerful and described what I often hope to. Thanks for joining me in this fight! Thank you all; this journey will continue until the end of September. I've also added photos of Todd and me, and Jim and me, to the gallery below.
Link to PMC Opening Ceremonies
20:09 Seconds into the video
The 2024 Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) Opening Ceremonies highlighted the collective spirit and efforts of participants, volunteers, and sponsors in fighting cancer. Chris McKeown, a 39-year PMC rider and the first PMC employee, emphasized the greater impact of the community's unified efforts, stating, “There's something about the collective spirit of all these riders, donors, volunteers, sponsors, onlookers. The phrase that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts perfectly captures the feeling, but all this humanity that is achieving something far beyond the sum of the individual efforts.”
26 minutes into the video
Cigall Kadoch, Ph.D., an associate professor at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator, has been supporting the PMC and leading PMC-funded research for eight years. She discussed a pivotal discovery made possible by PMC funding, which would not have received typical academic research funding due to its high risk and bold nature. She equated gene expression to the melody of life, explaining that any defect in this process can lead to cancer. Kadoch's work has enabled a mechanistic understanding and therapeutic targeting of factors controlling gene expression, leading to new therapies now in clinical trials. These advancements represent significant steps forward in cancer treatment, with the potential to revolutionize the field.
1 hr 6 minutes into the video
Charlie Sylva, who has raised over $300,000 for the PMC and is known for his work on This Old House, shared his dedication to the cause, riding every year.
The ceremony also explained how corporate sponsorships ensure that 100% of donations go directly to patient treatment and research at Dana-Farber.
July 31, 2024
I signed up to participate in the Pan Mass Challenge this year as a virtual rider. In January, when I considered taking on this challenge, I chose not to sign up at that time due to the ailing health of my mom and Angie's dad. It has been a long road this spring. Just a few weeks ago, we celebrated Abby's marriage to Brady; it was a wonderful celebration, and now I have two great sons-in-law. We are expecting more good news in the fall. Given the way this year unfolded, I was relieved that I did not take on the full commitment in January, but now I feel called to pick up this important work.
I will participate in Day 0 with the team, riding from Lenox to Sturbridge. The great news is that all rides are filled up with many riders joining the cause. I received a phone call from my friend Matt this fall, informing me that our high school friend Todd Powers had passed away. Todd was a good friend with a great laugh who enjoyed car racing and loved his family. Through Matt, I had the good fortune to get reacquainted with Todd when he visited the Berkshires a few times before the pandemic. I was saddened to hear that Todd was taken away much too early by cancer.
My efforts this year will be in memory of Todd and my friend Jim Nykorchuk, who passed this spring. I used to teach with Jim at Taconic High School, where he was a phenomenal mentor and friend as a fellow Culinary Teacher. I often think of Jim and how he would approach things as a teacher. Joan Morrow, who passed in January, was a good friend and supporter of this ride. I will miss Joan’s celebratory correspondence. Also, Andy, an avid rider and caretaker of all things with four legs, has left a void. I am grateful to have had all of these people in my life and am richer for it.
I am also riding in support of the many friends and colleagues who are fighting the fight, and my thoughts will be with my parents as well. This commitment I cannot do alone, so I ask once again: would you consider donating to my ride through the Virtual Rider window on the PMC page or through my PMC Unpaved window?
Thanks again for all the support over the years. I know you have your reasons, as you have taken up this fight many times before. With over $10,000 donated last year and $78,000 donated over the years, I can't thank you enough for all your support.
Thanks for joining me in this fight. You can donate through the links at the top of this page or through my Unpaved window. Either way, 100% of every dollar raised will go to the PMC and to Dana Farber to fight cancer and research improved treatments.
With faith and gratitude, Dan
or donate to anyone on our team
August 3, 2023
A huge thankyou to all my present and past sponsors. We are about to hit a milestone of 75,000 dollars raised and it looks like we will exceed this years goal of 6306 to get us there. Every dollar raised goes to fight cancer through research and treatment. Thanks so much! I will be in touch after the ride.
July 28, 2023
I managed to get a few rides in this week, one was a 96 Mile ride on Tuesday followed by a very tired group ride on Wednesday. I also compteted two 50 mile rides last weekend all in a last minute effort to regain some fitness to complete this years PMC. This morning I composed a Letter to the Editor:
Pan-Mass Challenge
August 5th and 6th Local Riders will be participating in the Pan Mass Challenge to raise money to fight Cancer. 100% of all rider raised dollars go toward research and treatment of cancer through the Dana Farber Cancer Research Center. Evan Hickok (traveling from the United Kingdom to participate), Fredrick Knight, Suzanne Merritt, Kevin Mitts, Jonathan Molk, Sam Smith, Craig Smith, and Paul Smyth are participating as Forza-G Pan Mass Team Members in the 2023 Pan Mass Challenge. In addition, friend Richard Simons will complete his 10th PMC this year. Forza-g has raised $483,000 so far in 2023. Would you consider joining us in this fight? We ride, but you make the difference. Even if a rider has reached their fundraising goal, please still consider donating, or as we say pile it on. To find out more about why we ride or to sponsor us Google the riders name and PMC. We are grateful to all our sponsors that make this a possibility, Thank you!
July 23, 2023
After returning from San Francisco I participated in the Wednesday Night Group ride. Due to my spiratic riding this year and carrying extra weight I tend to be the last one up the hills. The group extended a gesture of kindness waiting for me at the top of Bailey Road and Route 20.
On Saturday I rode with my friend Dave Boyce and we rode over to Chatham N.Y. . We took some new roads that led to a nice adventure. We rode 50 miles, when I got back I grappled with the idea of doing twice that amount for three days. Any mile right now will be helpful to participate in this challenge and I will work on some fundraising correspondence. Thank You all so much for donating to this ride.
July 19, 2023
My goal is the number it would take to reach $75000 in total fundraising. I am incredibly grateful for the gifts that have been given. It has been challenging to get myself to swing my leg over the bike but I feel fortunate to have a century under my belt with friend Matt Behnke on Saturday July 8. I hope to get pedaling and put in a few long rides before the event. Thankyou so much for Joining the fight, and sharing your kindness and your resources.
July 5, 2023
A saturday training ride took my friend Rich Simons and I to Camp Chesterfield now called Tolgy wood. The ride entailed over 5000 feet of climbing and over 6 hours in the saddle. The shade seemed to be in our favor with roads that wove along the rivers. The ride was quite an adventure and I was glad to get some miles in after not being on the bike very much this spring and early summer. Donations are coming in on a regular bases. This years totals reaching over $2000 and a Grand total over $70,000. Thank you for making a difference in the fight against cancer.
June 26, 2023
Thankyou for joining the fight. Below is a copy of my fundraising letter for this year. My goal this year is to raise as much as I can to fight Cancer and improve research for Dana Farber. Reading further would give you some of my history with this event.
Over eleven years ago, I was first inspired to ride in the Pan Mass Challenge to raise money for Cancer Research and Treatment after the passing of my sister, Loralee. As my experience with this event grows, the cycling seems less significant and the gifts given by our community more meaningful. Your gifts have totalled $68,694 over the eleven years, and many of you have chosen to support my rides time and time again. I know that cancer has deeply affected many of your lives, and has brought us together to work toward a better future with more effective treatments. I hope you will consider joining me for the first time, or the twelfth time, in this endeavor to make cancer a thing of the past.
100% of every rider-raised dollar supports the Dana Farber Cancer Foundation to improve research and treatments for cancer patients. Your gifts to Dana Farber have inspired me, provided healing and given me a sense of purpose during difficult times. I do the ride, but YOU make the difference.
Every gift is generous and propels us forward. Donations vary in size from a few dollars to many thousands of dollars, but they add up to life changing progress. Last year was a record fundraising year for our ride at a total of $11,210. The PMC raised a record $69,000,000 in 2022, bringing the total funds raised since 1980 to $900,000,000. Those numbers are incredible testaments to your generosity, my friends.
As I walk through my days I am reminded again and again how common cancer is in our lives.
My friends and colleagues have told me about their struggles and my immediate family has been touched recently as well. My mother-in-law, Marilyn, passed away a few weeks after I signed up for this year's PMC. In her final days, she was sent to Brigham and Women's Hospital, an affiliate of Dana Farber. I was glad to know she would receive the top level of care that you have helped to provide. Marilyn was an amazingly giving person. She had a huge loving impact on her family. She joked and made those around her feel comfortable until the end. I was fortunate to have her in my life. Because of my close contact with cancer patients, this letter has been crafted deep in my heart. Now I reach out to you with a written word to ask you, “Will join me in this fight?”
While on a recent ride I was reflecting on the PMC, and feeling a sense of gratitude. In this state, my thoughts mingled with the words of the song Thankyou, by Led Zeppelin. “Inspiration is what you are to me.” I think of the journey we have shared together, and I am grateful. In the very essence of that musical line, Robert Plant elegantly connects inspiration with gratitude. In that spirit, I hope you might consider targeting some of your philanthropic dollars to the Pan Mass Challenge. Your only risk is that you might receive a fundraising letter from me for the next twelve years.
January 22, 2023,
Feeling like I had to consider taking on the Pan-Mass Challenge this year seriously I went a week and a half without registering. The message I was sending to myself is that I needed to be in the right place. During that time three different conversations about Cancer came to the surface with friends at work, conversations on how it was affecting them and their families. Dana Farber was the place they were getting their treatment. I signed up the evening of the third conversation remembering the conversation about a friend's daughter and her upcoming second battle with Cancer. Coincidentally as I went to bed that night I remembered it was January 19, which is the day that Loralee passed eleven years ago. And so begins my twelfth Pan-Mass Challenge. I am going to set my goal at 10,000 dollars this year.
October 16, 2022
Thanks to your generosity in joining me in the fight against Cancer 2022 was our (mine and yours) ride the highest fundraising year over the eleven years. You have kept the lantern burning brightly. Thank you so much for joining the fight. Words can not tell you what an honor it is to participate in the Pan-Mass Challenge. As my friend prepares to go to Dana Farber I rest in the comfort of the level of care she is going to receive there.
August 11, 2022
You and I joined this fight together to make a difference in the lives of those who face cancer. Your giving has exceeded my imagined goal, $6600, the second highest fundraising year, my ride has generated $8730. The gratitude I feel for you joining me in this endeavor is a highlight of my year. With your generosity and giving, you are making a difference. Your commitment to this cause is humbling.
(This video is about 3 minutes long, then spools into the weather report, for a laugh, observe the humidity report, the third video about Team Beans is a bit more emotional but emphasizes the heavier reasons why we ride.)
Magical moments over the 300 miles include running into a young man who was at my daughter's wedding. All the miles where the pedaling was light, especially in the morning air. The cheers of all the supporters lined along the route; when looking into their eyes, I see they have their reasons. Watching Matt and Evan ride in their first PMC. Ethan at the Nickerson rest stop; you may remember Ethan I first met him when he was 9; he is 20 now. I will upload his photo onto my rider page gallery. Beautiful moments come to mind are the bike path along the Bourne Canal, the beautiful communities in Southern Massachusetts, and the sandy dunes as we approached Province town. I was looking forward to the ride this year, and it did not disappoint.
Riders experienced heat, Fatigue, and Mechanical issues. A 3:30 wakeup was required Saturday morning, oof. Forza G found a way to overcome a bearing issue in a first year's rider wheel, and incredibly the bike shop had the parts required. There were times in the afternoon when extra hydration and rest stops were required. The heat was stifling near the Cornfields past North Hampton and on the approach to Bourne, but it was relieved with a salty dip in the Bay on Saturday Evening. After completing the ride, I took a bus to Sturbridge, a four-hour bus ride; eerily, no one spoke a single word.
Forza G provided a beautiful tribute in memory to Ginger Smith, moved luggage across the state, and provided rider support and sustenance. A morning Acai power bowl was provided before the Friday rollout by Brew Berry at Lenox Fit. The team organized hotel logistics and a Charter bus to and from the hotel Friday night, they also provided morning coffee and breakfasts. Day 0 is possible because of all the logistics Forza G support handles. It was so good to see all the teammates in person.
I thank you for joining me and for sharing your resources to make this ride a possibility, and for making this the largest fundraiser of its kind. The Pan-Mass is on track to achieve 1 Billion dollars in total funds over the next two years and has raised 50 million dollars this year, so if you know anyone who wants to join the fight, send’em my way.
Thank you for the Healing, the magic, and for making this ride a possibility,
Daniel Moon
PMC Year 11
413 464 6355
August 3, 2022,
I am in a funny spot where the goal has been met, for which I am genuinely grateful, and thinking, could I reach out, being it is PMC weekend, and do a little more for Cancer Research and Treatment? I have about twenty-four hours left to do what I am going to do. I feel a fundamental dichotomy in feeling whether I should strive beyond the goal or should I turn to simply Thanking all the sponsors so far. But since this is about fighting Cancer, I will strive to go beyond the said goal, so won’t you join us in this fight against Cancer? Donate any amount to make a difference. I will include you in the community of people I reach out to each year during this process.
August 1, 2022, Thank you so much for joining this fight. Your donations to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute have been incredibly generous. This goal is worth achieving and going beyond so please if you are stopping by this page please consider donating any amount. While lining up on Saturday at 5 a.m. around 5000 riders all in the same jersey the thought will humble me that all of the riders had sponsors just like you willing to make a difference. 5000 riders times hundreds of sponsors equal commitment to change.
July 12, 2022
My first long-distance ride yesterday. Seventy-Seven miles with a friend and fellow PMC'er Rich Simons. Good weather and ride the entire way. Preparations were positive and positive riding thoughts. Thanks, sponsors for the momentum you are creating, hold up a mirror, the person you are looking at is the PMC. Spreading the word about the PMC makes the lantern grow brighter.
July 6, 2022,
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Angie points out when our numbers are lining up, for example, when the clock reads 1:11. Perhaps this means it is a good moment to make a wish. I sat down to work on this letter at 5:55 am to tell you I’ll strive to raise $6,600 in my 11th Pan-Mass Challenge in the year 2022. I invite you to join in this effort however you can. I feel fortunate to act as a conduit to your giving which has surpassed $58,000 over the years, and beyond dollars, you have offered gifts of character as well as stories of resilience, and courageousness, all of which have been grounded in generosity.
On August 5th, 6th, and 7th, my team Forza-G and I will ride our bicycles 300 miles from the NY border to Provincetown raising money for cancer research. The Pan-Mass Challenge is one of the largest events to improve cancer research and treatment in the United States combining bicycle riding with fundraising for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. The PMC will raise $66 Million this year, with Forza-G hoping to contribute $600,000. 100% of funds raised by cyclists will go to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
I have always enjoyed riding my bike, so the Pan-Mass Challenge has been the perfect event to channel my energy and share stories of healing and courageousness. I feel gratitude for the grace provided by health care workers as my sister navigated her treatment. Specifically, I feel thankful for the extreme kindness provided by the nurses and doctors to Loralee during her final days. I ride in her remembrance knowing that your contributions are improving outcomes. The ride has also provided a sense of community through your shared stories and your passion to make a difference in the treatment of cancer. John, Barrett’s Dad talked about the immeasurable value of friends and family over the years, those words resonated deeply with me. Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” has inspired me to introduce “PMC Riders On Bikes Getting Coffee (no bike required)”. Feel free to call or text me (413-464-6355) or email me (dmoon6648@gmail.com) to set up a coffee date to talk about the ways this event is important to you or catch up on any topic.
The reason I have been able to participate in this event over the years is through the loving support of my wife who has continued to be flexible about how we celebrate our anniversary after or during PMC weekend. Angie and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary by traveling to Sun Valley Idaho later that week to spend time with Barrett and Sarah. Local Teammates Matt Behnke and Evan Hickok will join the route in person for the first time this year as part of the Forza-G PMC team. You may recall Matt has participated in this event locally but this is the first time he will be doing the full ride. He and Evan will also join me for Day 0 (The NY Border on 102 to Sturbridge), and after the event, Evan will be moving to the United Kingdom, amazingly through this transition, he maintains his commitment to the PMC. If you want to read more about their efforts you will be able to search their rides on the PMC website.
Please consider this letter as simply an appeal and not an obligation – you can help by donating any amount, or also help just by spreading the word. If you know someone who is passionate about fighting cancer please have them search on Google: “Daniel Moon PMC” so they can read about my ride. Donations are accepted through October.
If this event fits into your giving, please consider donating:
Google: Daniel Moon PMC and donate through my PMC page, or
Checks can be written out to “PMC” and mailed to me at 159 Velma Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Be well friends and may the wind be at your back, Dan
A remembrance of Loralee:
In my early twenties and owning my first house, my sister had gotten a job at the phone company making a decent salary and pulled up to my house on a sunny day driving a brand new Purple Ford Probe. I was envious. Her job had benefits. I was comparing my two full-time jobs to her job, and it seemed like she had it made. In the end, the seemingly nice job did not bring her happiness, and the Purple Sports car’s life was eventually cut short by a deep puddle on Melville street.
Later on, Loralee decided to go back to college; her company had offered a small buy-out option from her position. She walked away from what I perceived as a stable life situation towards something that was calling to her. She pursued writing and poetry and found many moments of joy in that work.
In my mind, it seemed like such a risk, but she followed her heart. I was so scared for her as she veered off the secure path, but it was in her passing that I recognized the beauty of this.
June 23, 2022,
Grace, and gratitude, These are words that come to mind when thinking about participating in the Pan Mass. Grace was what I witnessed while my sister was at Baystate Medical Center and kindness poured out through the nurse's hands as she brushed my sister's hair and delivered kind words in difficult moments. Gratitude is what I feel for the folks at Dana Farber who partnered with the staff at Bay State Medical center and for all of my sponsors over the years who have donated thousands of dollars.
Grace. Perhaps it is the sharing of words or holding back tears when doing so seems close to impossible and to watch the nursing staff be so kind at a pinnacle moment and amidst such a desire to muster inner strength.
Gratitude for being able to participate in the PMC for the eleventh year.
I feel healed with all of your support over the years of participating in the PMC. This year I hope to raise as much money as possible to fight cancer. Returning to the event in person will be wonderful this year and I look forward to learning from others, hearing about their experiences and why they continue to contribute, and why you are so passionate about fighting cancer. Please email me your reasons why, or if you would like to learn more about the event contact me: dmoon6648@gmail.com or 413 464 6355. We can talk about the event or simply have a cup of coffee.
Thanks for reading and considering donating and have a blessed day,
Dan
February 13, 2022, I received a phone call yesterday from teammate Matt Behnke asking if he could share my ride and if I had signed up. I appreciate him sharing my page on Facebook since I am still on hiatus from that form of social media though I know it has its pluses. This will be my 11th PMC. My training partner Cosmo and I went for a snow bike ride yesterday where we ran into someone walking their hog. I will include a picture in the gallery. The softer 40 plus degree day was enjoyable riding through the crystallized mashed potatoes.
August 7, 2021, I envisioned a scene out of Forest Gump where hundreds of riders would join Matt and me for our reimagined ride but come the day it was just us. We met in my garage early maybe 6:30 and headed south on South Mountain Road. There is something peaceful about an early morning start, less traffic. Good conversation faded the first twenty miles of Barker Road, the center of West Stock Bridge and Rte 41 to Great Barrington behind us.
Going through the Center of Great Barrington with less traffic is always a gift and once you reach the distinctively different roads of route 7 in Sheffield heading into Connecticut you know you are somewhere else. Some showers hit us there but we continued to roll through the flat roads and when I asked Matt if he had seen the covered bridge (featured in unsolved mysteries for the UFO landing) and he replied No U-turn was required. After getting eaten by mosquitoes we shortened our sightseeing stop and headed back on the road again.
On the long stretch of road, we heard some honking and a white truck pulled us to the side. He was ahead talking to Matt and when I rolled up I saw I recognized the man. It was a fellow PMCer Peter Whitehead. Somehow magically I run into Peter each year at the PMC even though there are thousands of riders. I met Peter years ago when I started group riding with the Housatonic Wheel Club. Peter is an excellent rider and I take it as a sign that even though we did our reimagined route we still managed to run into Peter. Peter was leaving later that day to do the Wellsley route but I think a small part of him wishes he had just ridden locally with us.
There is something amazing about Matt and his 1994 Marin Hybrid that he rides. Twenty-seven years later the bike rolls along steadily and Matt knows exactly how to ride it. After some more pedaling when the fatigue hits and the conversations fade we reached Route 44 Canaan Rd. Hills start to become more substantial and there is one hill that as you approach looks kind of like a wall. Probably ten years ago I was on a ride alone there and near the top of the hill I hear a creaking noise and as I continued the climb and had just passed under a tree it gave way to its hold on the earth and crashed right behind me. The substantial tree now lying motionlessly on the ground I unclipped my foot and looked behind me. An Eastbound Car had to stop and frustrated at his luck made an impatient U-turn. I was mystified that the driver couldn't roll down my window and acknowledge how amazingly lucky I was not to have been crushed by the tree.
Everyone who rides the route with me gets to hear the story. As we roll across another State Line into Millerton Matt and I stopped at a really good Deli for a second time and Split a turkey grinder and an order of my kryptonite (Onion Rings.) Some pleasant conversation and a mid-ride break were welcomed.
Back on Route, we opted to take the bike Path in Millerton which was very pleasant. Rolling across wetlands with expansive bridges and miles of a beautiful Split Rail fence, the tall kind with 3 cross pieces. Recently run we treated to amazing sanctuaries of wildlife on the not so overcrowded rail trail which gave refuge from the sider of Route 22 heading North.
The rail-trail ends and there is a sign that explains the long-term plan to make that rail trail reach Chatham NY. I can't wait for that. Right now I would say that it was about 12 to 15 miles long with some side roads you end up on Rte 22 and we were quickly reminded of the sounds of traffic as a Tanker was having some distress as it rolled past us with building traffic and stalled on top of a small hill. Shortly after that, we stopped for an alternative stop on Rte 22 a Stewarts. We got some Gatorade and met a savvy rider who knew to ask for some cups of crushed ice. Knowing the idea was ingenious I did not follow the cue and was later in a state of dismay by sipping on my warm camel backwater.
We took our trusty right-hand turn on route 23 and began to climb our way up Catamount. It's a pleasant grade for the most part yet a fairly substantial climb where you have to settle in for a substantial climb. Passing the miles along 23 and now at the 60 and 70-mile range under our tires confidence grows that you will complete the ride as we roll towards Egremont and the way back to Great Barrington. We contemplate other ways home but chose to stay the course through a traffic-filled Great Barrington and back to 41. 41 from 76 to 86 miles felt less like a chore today than it did earlier in the summer and at the end where it meets 102 we stopped on a grassy hill where some construction equipment was parked. We discussed our options on how to get to 100 miles in and decided to head to NY state. We talked about life some and rolled over Baker St and a back way to LUVs where we could refill and use the ice trick. As I looked through my Camel Back I realized I had lost my license and credit card and a little cash. We still executed the crushed ice trick. LUVs seemed like an amazing oasis with rolling hot dogs and many options but we stuck to the drinks and Ice and that was nice. We rolled back to the construction equipment in case my lost things were there and Matt called the Stewarts in NY managing his smart equipment expertly and with no avail, my thoughts of an extra 20 miles dissipated and we rolled home. With 104 miles under my belt and 20 minutes on the computer new credit cards and licenses were on the way. Angie asked if I wanted to backtrack and the thought of driving over all the roads with my ancient Subaru quickly gave way for the desire of a pleasant nap.
Once again participating in the PMC greatly has exceeded my expectations. Riding with Matt staying local and still, you have given 5600 dollars this year Bringing the ten-year total over 57000 dollars. For me, this has provided healing, and thinking about the memory of Loralee. For others improved treatment through advanced research. The stories you share and the conviction you show. So amazing. Thanks for making my 10th PMC a possibility.
July 30, 2021, An 80-mile ride designed by friends Sweep and Birk. I had feelings of self-doubt being the slower rider on hills but was treated to magnificent views of Windmills, Mountains, and Rolling Countrysides as we looped through NY state and headed toward Williams Town then dropped down through North Adams. Somewhere around mile 50, I started to feel like I might make the distance though my brain still tried to calculate the magnitude of the remaining climbs in its silent panicky way. We were also treated to a view of old motorcycles along the way. I am going to call this Reimagined ride 2. The logistics for Saturday's ride are we are leaving from my house at 159 Velma Avenue in Pittsfield at 7 a.m. on Saturday. Our goal will be 100 miles ridden for Cancer. Matt will be riding his 90's era hybrid bike so come ride some or all the miles with us. Bring your Banana bike and feel free to fade off the back or launch off the front of this peloton of 2. Every pedal stroke is about fighting cancer and it's not about the ride!
July 27, 2021, On Saturday, July 24 I completed my first century of the year. I will think of it as Reimagined Ride 1 2021. The same route we will be riding on Saturday, August 7. I was joined by Birk and Sweep two expert riders who helped the miles role away in a rhythmic fashion. My body held up pretty well until mile 88, not a bad point for my legs refuse to sustain the same pace so I had no choice but to slow the finish of the hundred miles. There is something very satisfying about getting that first long ride completed. But nothing more satisfying than the feeling of your support. Donations are approaching 55,000 in total funds raised 100% of which goes to benefit the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
On Monday, July 26, I was able to do one of my favorite rides around Mystic and a Sunflower Farm somewhere near there. The ride is one I found in a book years ago. Over the years I have done part or most of that ride most summers probably for as I have PMC'd. I often do this ride right after the PMC and as much as I love the PMC and all the riders I really enjoy the Solitude of this ride. I tried to share some of the photos from the ride.
July 17, 2021
The PMC has been on my mind often as the year has progressed. In a typical year, much of my fundraising has been completed by now, with a wedding on the horizon an up and down school year, I am grateful to be in a place where I can focus on the PMC.
The PMC has been a place of hope and healing and your support and encouragement has been a huge part of it. Over the last decade, you have given me a positive outlet for all I have felt since Loralee's passing. Your surprise donations this year have given me an encouraging nudge.
A friend, perhaps unknowingly set a great example for me about enjoying a beautiful day (on an overcast, cold, and cloudy with ensuing grumpiness), how to be respectful in church, how to share homemade bread, how to give of time and resources, all the time-fighting Cancer. In some ways, it feels that that friend is gone now however in many ways she is not, that example has been set for us to remember and that thread is embedded in many of our lives.
I see hope and I see improvement in treatments. I see will to live and examples of how to live. I see the benefits of research and treatment and care given by hospital workers and I see incredible people everywhere who give of their time and their resources and for that I am grateful. Please consider once again donating to the PMC through my ride.
I will be riding locally again this year with friend Matt Benke and we have chosen my Connecticut, NY loop for Saturday's ride having made my decision to ride reimagined in January of this year when things looked quite different. If you would like more information about the PMC or would like to join Matt and I please contact me at 413-464-6355 or dmoon6648@gmail.com.
August 2, 2020
PMC Rides this year consisted of a Friday ride south to Connecticut and west to NY State. Highlights included the covered bridge featured in Netflix's modern version of unsolved mysteries, a section of Rail trail with beautiful views, and the Scenic Highway I rode along in Connecticut. One street in NY state was named Lackawanna, an ailment I started to suffer from around mile 70.
Saturday I rode with Forza G teammate Matt Behnke, We headed North to Bennington taking Scenic routes by Jiminy Peak. We turned around at the Deer Park in Bennington heading back South and over to North Adams where we took the Rail Trail to get off of the Highway for a bit. While discussing which Route to take Friday night Matt somehow scientifically calculated that a Northern Route would provide the best shade and the ride was shady until the sun was the mid sky.
Now Sunday Morning I am going to try to do some local riding before the rain starts. I thought a lot about Rosalind Szymanski yesterday during the ride who I dedicated this years ride to. My friends Mom who watched over us in our late teens. She was a kind person who always provided hospitality to us regardless of circumstance.
Even during a Pandemic, you have maintained your conviction to fight cancer and provide improved research and treatment to Cancer. The PMC is approaching 30,000,000 for 2020 a positive news during such turbulent times. Thanks as always for everything.
May 16, 2020
After 9 years of participation, 1 year as a virtual rider, and this year we have reached this landmark:
50,000
Apparently nothing can stop your generosity. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
March 24, 2020
With everything being so uncertain right now it is hard to know if there will be a Pan-Mass Challenge this year. I am really at a loss for words. I want to thank everyone for the immense support over the years. I signed up for the ride in January and have not put any effort into fundraising. This will be my ninth year participating and Cancer has touched my friends and their families over the last year, and now there are more fears and uncertainties Corona Virus. I was humbled to see a 250 dollar donation given to my ride with no letters sent and no words spoken. Thank you so much for the surprise donation. Rosalind Arnold will also be in my thoughts this year no matter what happens over the next few months. The PMC has lowered the fundraising minimums required this year due to our latest challenges.
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Please consider donating to my ride. 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar goes to fighting cancer through research and treatment. Dana Farber is an amazing treatment facility and advances in treatment are found all the time. I started riding this ride with the loss of my sister Loralee and every year more reasons ride. My long term goal is to make it to 50,000 dollars. Any donation size is generous and helpful. Even 10 dollars keeps the momentum going.
This year I will be adding these names to the Banners in Province town and Borne.
In memory of:
Gary Lamoureaux
Rich Gitch Sadlowski
and
Becky Vogelheim
In Memory of Gary Lamoureaux and Rich Geech Sadlowski.
May 2019- Talking to my brother in law Bob the other night at my Dad's 80'th Birthday he shared a story of his life long friend that passed recently. It is another story of courage in the face of an unbeatable challenge. His life long friend Rich Geech Sadlowski passed away this spring. When the Doctors were reviewing his symptoms they would ask what care facility he was staying in. When they found out he was still going to work they couldn't believe it. The story inspired coworkers and even warranted a visit from the Admiral, though Rich was unable to show up to work that day. Rich and Bob knew each other since Grammar School.
April 2019- This ride is in memory of Gary Lamoureaux. Gary was a strong supporter of this ride, I knew Gary through volunteering at St Stephens table (local soup kitchen) and church. Gary championed his personal fight against cancer. Regardless of what Gary had going on he always asked about you and your family.
July 29, 2018, Thank you for all the donations to the PMC. Your commitment to change is awesome. 1141 dollars will bring our Seven year total to 40000 dollars.
April 8, 2018 Thanks for considering making a donation. I hope to raise 14681 dollars towards the Pan-Mass Challenge. That number would bring the total to 50,000 dollars. It might take a while to make that type of progress and we won't stop there. We won't stop while we are able to continue with the faith that every dollar raised makes a difference. That the 52 Million dollars raised last year improve research and treatment for Cancer survivors. Please leave your reasons on your donation message as we continue our quest.
August 4, 2017
Thanks for the outpouring of resources to be utilized to find a cure. Your conviction is inspiring and I will carry it with me the entire way. I will try to recapture the essence of the weekend and bring it back to you.
We met as a team last night and the funds raised and feeling of excitement are both high. I feel blessed to have so much support.
If this is your first time on this page please realize that any donation now really propels us forward. $5 makes a difference so please consider donating any amount. We will be rolling out in an hour and a half.
With Gratitude, Dan
June 11, 2017
Some magical things happen while fundraising for the Pan-Mass. One of my graduating seniors gave me a donation with a thank you card. That blew me away. Thanks, Ally
A surprising word of mouth donation came through. Someone heard about what we are trying to do here and donated unsolicited.
Generosity is totally close to 1000 dollars so far on June 11. Many thanks to so many sponsors.
March 31, 2016
Year Number Six
My ultimate vision for fundraising for the Pan Mass is that the funds improve treatment for people fighting cancer and to provide resources to Dana Farber to continue to Research and find solutions.
My Purpose is to reach out to like-minded people that would like to join in the effort by donating to my ride.
Every rider-raised dollar goes to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund.
July 8, 2016,
I was reminded recently by one of my sponsors it is all about the research so don't think you can put it out there too much. This event is one of the reasons that Dana Farber can operate on the level that it does. The extra 45 million per year that the Pan-Mass raises allows them to improve their treatment of patients.
While thanking one of my sponsors recently I thanked him for his donation and the post it note he sent along with it. I save those notes over the years which keeps me going with fundraising efforts and raising money for the ride. He reminded me how far we have come with the treatment of Cancer.
Another sponsor last year said, It's only a matter of time.
June 6, 2016,
This will be my fifth Pan Mass which is happening August 6 and 7th. I have been blessed with a collaborative community that has supported this ride for the previous four years totaling over 24,000 dollars in funds raised. It is my sponsors that motivate me to recommit each year. All rider fund dollars go to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund.
March 31, 2015, This will be my fourth Pan Mass. My goal for this year is to raise 5921 dollars. Friends, colleagues, and family members have been affected from this disease. Every donated dollar goes to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund to fight cancer. A friend found out this month that he has to fight prostate cancer after fighting kidney cancer last year. Raising money for the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber is something I can do. I have been blessed and supported by a community of people that has sponsored this effort the last three years. I dreamed the other night that I was lined up with the thousands of other bike riders and I had done no fundraising. The panic and the realization within the dream is that it is not about the ride. Everyone knows it. It is about an effort to fight cancer. A collaborative movement to say we will do what we can. Every rider makes a commitment to raise 4500 dollars this year.
July 26th, 2014Recently while at a local hospital I watched a woman with a prosthetic leg balance nimbly on her two crutches while waiting for the person behind the desk to help her. One difference at Dana Farber is that they notice when someone is in discomfort and they come to you. Empathy can go a long way when enduring Pain and Suffering. Why do I ride in the Pan-Mass? It gave me something positive to do while experiencing something very trying and difficult in life. Sixty people have sponsored me so far this year and I am hope to generate a few more donations for Dana Farber this week. Does it matter how much you give? Nope, it's not a competition and all donations are considered generous!
July 2nd, 2014
In memory and celebration of a wonderful life of Cathy Carchedi's sister and Dot Lamberts daughter Caroline Bregg.
June 18, 2014While speaking with some of this year's donors it is evident how important this event is to raising money to help fight cancer. I often give my reasons why I have chosen to take on this event. I am grateful for being able to raise the 4300 hundred minimum fundraising goal the last two years and hope to come close to that figure again this year for the Pan-Mass.
Please send special thoughts and prayers for Honey Kurber, sister-in-law Joan Kurber who is fighting her last days of liver cancer. Bill Lyon Brother to Lois NeumannLorraine Lyon Lois’s Sister-in-law prayers for Matt Clark father to Jess and father-in-law to Dustin BoyceIn Memory of Mary Jo Humphrey - Friend and Neighbor to Bill Frazier and Diane Forsythe.
June 6, 2014Year 3 of the Pan-Mass. I have chosen on my website to keep donation amounts private. Please if you choose to give, give an amount that is comfortable. Angie and I have discussed this years ride and we are willing to donate any shortfall of the fundraising goal. I will reach out into the community because I understand that this is a cause that is important to so many.
My sister Loralee passed away from Uterine Cancer on January 19th of 2012. Many things in life have happened over the last two and a half years since she has been gone, some good, some not so good. I am grateful to have the health to ride this ride one more time and hope to participate again in the future.
My friend Richie is doing well post-treatment, I will ride in honor of his fight with cancer.
Another friend Dan Keegan recently underwent an operation for Kidney Cancer. Pre-operation he would come down to have his morning coffee and check and see if I was doing okay. Thanks, Dan for checking on me, while facing your own challenges. Post-operation he looks great and is doing well.
This year I will ride in honor of Dan's fight as well as Carol Jones.
Friend Cricket Cooper has recently been declared Cancer Free after a two-year battle. Awesome.
I will ride in memory of Loralee, Pete Pederson, Heidi Hannon, Dianne Haas, Ester Clark, and Harold Vigeant.
July 25, 2013 This year I will ride in memory of: Loralee Moon Pete Pedersen Heidi Hannon Dianne Haas Ester Clark Harold Vigeant and in Honor of Richie Powers. We will be leaving Lenox next Friday to ride from the N.Y. border on Rte 102 to the tip of the Cape. If anyone has a name they would like to add to the list please send it to me. Please consider supporting my ride to raise money for Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund to fight cancer. Thanks for making this possible. Dan May 2013 Shortly before Christmas Richie, a good friend came to Taconic to let me know he had Intestinal Cancer. Richie also a dad, a husband, and a caterer has had to fight cancer for the last six months while trying to keep all other parts of his life afloat. When he told me shortly before Christmas it was eerily reminiscent of finding out that my sister was sick again before Christmas the previous year. Since that time I have watched Richie endure Chemo Therapy, Radiation and an operation. He is on the other side of his operation and is recovering. His full recovery process is going to take eight months. Richie recently was tested to see if there was Cancer anywhere else and there wasn't. As I have watched Richie go through all of this I have never heard him complain, he never asked why, he just figured out a way to deal with it and still take care of his family. I look forward to seeing Richie return to full health and capacity. Sadly Pete Pedersen passed away summer. I knew only of his fight through my friend Hannah. Pete was again a husband, a father, a brother, and a son. I will ride in memory of Pete and in honor of his family and the truly valiant fight against cancer that they all endured. Pete was surrounded by people who shared his incredible will and shared the difficult fight that he endured. I will ride in memory of my sister Loralee Moon who lost her fight against Cancer January 19th of last year. A month after she was diagnosed with Cancer. This year as I was riding over to a bike race I have done for the last four years called the Tour of the Battenkill, I was tense about competing in the race and something Loralee had done 30 years early helped to ease the tension. As I pulled into Dunkin Donuts to get my extra large coffee I noticed some toilet paper strewn through a tree. My last day of school in fifth grade, over thirty years ago, I had rushed home hoping to make it to a friends graduation party. As I rushed past the kitchen table, past my sister and her friend and ran up the back stairs to my room I was treated to a spider web of string and shaving cream strewn all around the room. I was mad because I was in a hurry and kept knocking things down as I tried to navigate my way through the string. Now that moment of frustration provides a fond memory of my sister and provided me with comfort. Heidi Hannon sister of Mary Gillman passed from cancer. Dianne Haas the mother-in-law to Al and Lois Simonds son passed from cancer. More and more stories are told to me and I will carry these names with me during the ride this year. I will ride in hope that new discoveries can be made about cancer and that Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund can continue to help cancer patients in the compassionate way I witnessed with my sister. July 2012 When I took on this commitment I knew it would be challenging. I am truly touched by people's genorisity. Thanks so much for supporting Dana Farber in the fight against cancer. I am not sure if I can ever thank people enough. The members of my team Forza-G that have helped me raise funds. All of my generous sponsors. Thank you. Please tell me any names of people that you know that have been touched by Cancer. I thought of one of my sisters poems while painting my deck yesterday: True Vocation He decided early in career, as a house-painter, that he only liked to paint the color yellow. Not any yellow but a specific tint he mixed himself, exactly the shade of a buttercup. And he only liked to paint kitchen walls, this buttercup yellow. He refused any other work, he refused to paint any other color. Well, he would paint kitchen cabinest white; he thought white cabinets accented buttercup yellow walls nicely. He didn't get much work but people who wanted yellow kitchens knew exactly who to call. And when he finished painting the perfect yellow kitchen with white cabinets, he could remember his Mother's kitchen and taste the buttered toast of yesterday and he was as happy as Sunday morning. Loralee Moon February 2012 My sister Loralee passed away on January 19, 2012 of Uterin Cancer. She was 44 years old. She had an extremely malignant form of cancer and was diagnosed in early December. Still we were thinking long term. She went into the hospital on January 17th to prepare for Chemotherapy. During that stay in the hospital things took a drastic turn for the worse and she passed away 2 days later. Loralee's courage during these days was amazing and inspiring, always thinking of others before her self. Other losses in our family include Ester Clark, My grandmother who I never got the chance to meet and my Uncle Harold who I miss dearly. I would also like to ride for Pete Pedersen who is Reverend Hannah Anderson's brother. Hannah is the Rector at our church Saint Stephen's in Pittsfield, Mass. Though I don't know Pete I know a bit about his battle with cancer. He has beaten the odds for nine years. The courage Pete has is something I recognized in my sister during her struggle. Always proceeding with hope, courage, and concern for the others around them rather than for themselves. I am not sure where the deep strength comes from but it is mesmerizing and inspiring. Hannah has helped my family and I through these difficult days. Her compassion and understanding were beyond belief. I consider her an inspiration and a close friend. Thanks also to all of the people at Saint Stephen's Church and Taconic High School who provided immeasurable support and the many friends of Loralee. Our visits and care at both Dana Farber, and Bay State Medical Center were beyond the expectation of compassion and caring. Doctor Suzanne Berlin, Dr. Myers, and Dr. Dillon all contributed to the wonderful care Loralee received. Dana Farber cares for so many people with compassion, and expertise.
| 2024 | $2,057.02 | Virtual Ride |
| $4,430.00 | PMC Unpaved | |
| 2023 | $8,338.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Inn (2-Day) |
| $1,730.00 | PMC Unpaved | |
| 2022 | $11,210.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2021 | $5,695.00 | Reimagined |
| 2020 | $5,075.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2019 | $7,095.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2018 | $4,300.00 | PMC Rider |
| 2017 | $5,665.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2016 | $5,575.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2015 | $10,000.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Monument (2-Day) |
| 2014 | $4,480.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Inn (2-Day) |
| 2013 | $4,726.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Inn (2-Day) |
| 2012 | $4,873.00 | Sturbridge to Provincetown Inn (2-Day) |
