When January rolled around again, and PMC sign ups were released, I 100% knew I was ready to ride again. This will be my second year riding the one-day 85 miles from Wellesley to Bourne. After 6 years of volunteering and one year of riding, I have become very close to this weekend. PMC weekend is one of my most cherished times of the whole year. It is an opportunity to push my body, mind, and give back all at the same time. I always feel closer to family and friends than ever before, whether it's the amazing lunch stop volunteer crew or the text from my friends wishing me luck the night before. I am thankful for all the support. Each pedal stroke up a steep, tough hill reminds me why I ride. I ride for my Bah, Steve Morland, whose life was taken too soon by non-smokers lung cancer. I ride for my grandpa, Brian Clark, who passed from Mesothelioma. I ride for my Gere, Carole Clark, who passed away from Dementia but was a strong and powerful Breast Cancer survivor. I ride for John Gilfillan, my dads close college friend, who passed away from Glioblastoma. I ride for Hailey Stone, a classmate from high school who passed away from Leukemia. I ride for Pam Gay-Killeen, another breast cancer survivor. As every year passes I still struggle to avoid adding more names to this list. Julie Romano is the mom of four kids, the oldest being one of my best friends, Anna Romano. Julie was just recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer and will undergo surgery in June. They caught it early and it is treatable because of the amazing work that the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has done. She is one of the strongest mothers I know, always there for each one of her kids. I know you can do this Julie, we are all here for you along the way.

The PMC is truly an incredible foundation that continues to save so many lives. I will ride for team LUNGSTRONG and am proud to know that every rider raised dollars goes directly to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I hope you consider donating to support me on my ride and give to an amazing foundation. Closer by the mile…

Thank you so much,

Emma Morland