Every year, I come back to update this note with waves of mixed, powerful emotions. Dread and sorrow from the stinging memories of loss, and the addition of those who have entered the arena to combat the emperor of all maladies—or who have lost their fight. But also, inspiration and hope.

The feelings of inspiration and hope, colored by the memories of loved ones, are so visceral—so intoxicating—that they drown the sorrow and replace it with a sense of ultimate purpose. For reading this and joining in the fight, you have my eternal gratitude. You will never ride alone.

I am riding in the Pan-Mass Challenge in honor and memory of friends, family, and strangers who have been affected by cancer. Though I cannot name them all, there are a few I would like to mention:

• I ride in memory of Al Pop Baghbeh. Al put more love and joy into the world in his years that most peolpe could dream of doing in multiple lifetimes. He was a fatherly figure full of good advice to anyone fortunate enough to get close enough to his gravitational pull. I count myself as one of the privileged ones who had the good fortune to as a role model in my formative year.
• I ride in memory of Sarah Joy Beil. Sarah's insipration of creativity and joy of simple pleasures is something we can all learn from. She is surivived by a vibrant family that will carry on her legacy - gone but not forgotten.
• I ride in honor of Tom Grandaddy Taylor. Tom overcame his battle with cancer in 2024. Tommy is a beam of sunshine no matter how dark and cold the world may seem. Even in his most challenging days of treatment, he was a beacon of positivity—something we can all appreciate. Thank you for the love and joy you bring to the world.
• I ride in honor of Randy P. Randy has also recently overcome his battle with cancer. To my ride-or-die—thank you for your love, support, and good spirits.
• I ride in honor of Fran. Fran has triumphed over cancer and leaves every room with more smiles and joy than existed there before. Thank you for the warmth and support through the years.
• I ride in memory of Papa Jean. Jean lost his battle with cancer but did not leave this world defeated. Thank you for the memories and for bringing out the best in people.
• I ride in memory of David C. David who passed away some years ago but whose memory has not escaped me a single day since. Thank you for being there from the day I was born until your last. Your greeting of “Big Man!” is forever enshrined in my heart.
• I ride in memory of John A.John who lost his battle with cancer in late 2022 and is survived by his resilient wife and four children. Though I did not know him long, John made an impression that will last a lifetime. His kindness and thoughtfulness transcended his own battle—offering me much-needed words of support when I was facing loved ones in the throes of cancer treatment.

I will be riding with my colleagues on Team Atlantic Global Risk and look forward to many more years of PMC support.

Many thanks in advance for your contributions to the cause.

—Eric