To my friends, fans and those who can't stand me but just want to do a good thing:

Me again.

In a couple of weeks, I'll be riding in the PMC again, trying to pedal through the pain and the chafing again, and asking for your help one more time. For the 11th year in a row, it will be my honor to ride with the Reindeer and try to keep up with our wonderful captain Lisa Scherber.

As you may know, every cent we raise pays for a little party for 800 Jimmy Fund kids and their famiies that Lisa and her army of angels put on every Christmas. You want to talk about a good cause? Well, the more money we raise, the crazier Lisa gets and the more fun the kids have.

Two years ago, she had actual farm animals roaming the lobby of the Newton Marriott. Last year it wasn't quite as messy - Lisa brought in reindeer robots to give the kids rides around the ballroom. Always there are jugglers, clowns, train rides and of course Santa and his elves (who are actual physicians at the Dana Farber).

One thing is guaranteed: Your money will go toward making sure a kid with cancer has a blast for at least one day in December. If you can think of a better cause, you let me know. Plus, as an added bonus, you can be sure I'll be in pain for a day or two! And it might even rain! And I'll probably get a flat!

So give to one of the Reindeer riders if you can, or give to anyone who is clipping in and taking part on August 4-5. You have about 6,000 brave fools to choose from. The goal is a modest one - to raise $50 million. In one weekend. All for the Jimmy Fund. All for some great kids who've been dealt a really rotten hand.

It is truly an amazing event. So help out. Sit back. And feel good. You have done for your part to put smiles on the faces of some kids who desperately need them.

Thanks so much for your support this year, and for the last 11 years. It's been a great ride.

- Gerry

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