“When you can’t figure out how, turn to your why.”

That was my takeaway from last year’s Pan Mass Challenge, and holds as my mission driving into this year’s ride.

45 years ago, Billy Starr founded the Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) with a simple but powerful goal: fund groundbreaking cancer research. Today, it stands as the largest athletic fundraiser in the world, bringing together thousands of riders to raise critical funds for cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. That was Billy’s “why.”

In three weeks, I will be riding 192 miles in my second PMC—a challenge that is as much personal as it is purposeful. I am riding with my team, Team Next Gen, a group of 130 friends following in our parents' footsteps—as the next generation embracing the PMC mission.

Here are my whys:

For my grandmother, Jean Rose Sullivan. Her story first connected my family to the PMC 20 years ago after losing her battle to Leukemia at Dana Farber.

For my friend, Danny Mullins, who had a home at the PMC finish line in P-town, before passing away from cancer.

For my teammates, whose parents are fighting, surviving, or have been lost to cancer - with Dana-Farber by their side.

This isn’t just a ride. It’s a mission. And I’m inviting you to be part of it.

I'm asking for your support and donation to reach my fundraising goal of $6,000 this year.

100% of every dollar donated supports Dana-Farber’s world-class research and care. No overhead. No middleman. Just pure impact. If you want to donate this year, and support my ride, please follow the instructions below:

You can donate on my PMC Profile Page or one of the options below:

Donate $1,000

Donate $500

Donate $250

Donate $100

Donate any amount

Donate via Venmo by scanning the QR code below

Cancer touches all of us. Let’s ride toward a world where it doesn’t.

With a bit of grit, immense amounts of gratitude, and a lot of bike grease,

Eliza Paton