I did my first PMC in 2015, riding in honor of my mother and brother -- both cancer survivors. This year, l'm riding again to honor the strength of the survivors, the memory of those we lost, and the bravery of those in the thick of the battle. I ride in honor of my cousin Denise, who we lost far too young to this insidious disease.

Meeting so many survivors and hearing tales of their bravery lifts me up and keeps me grounded all at once. The thousands of people that support us riders each year, the kids and adults who line the route cheering us on, are inspiring and uplifting in ways I can't describe.

I also ride because it's a way for me to make a difference. The Pan Mass Challenge is literally the most efficient fund raiser in the world: 100% of rider-raised revenue goes directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure. Last year, Pan Mass Challenge riders raised over $40 million dollars that went directly to cancer research.

I've made a personal commitment to ride and raise at least $6,000. Please help me find a cure.