I ride in the Pan-Mass Challenge because cancer has touched too many lives close to mine — and I can’t just stand by.

Last year, I rode the PMC not knowing that my father-in-law’s cancer would take him a week later. This year, I ride in his memory — for the strength he showed and the love he gave until the very end.

I will also continue to honor all the brave kids out there who’ve faced cancer with incredible strength, especially Owen and Emily. No child should have to know that kind of fight. No parent should have to watch their child go through it and certainly no parent should have to say goodbye to their child because of it.

Every mile I ride and every dollar raised supports Dana-Farber’s life-saving research and compassionate care. This year, I’m doubling my distance — 162 miles — to help bring us closer to a world without cancer.

I ride for those we’ve lost, for those still fighting and for hope.