I'm a proud, new participant in the Pan-Mass Challenge - a bike-a-thon that raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country - to bring us Closer by the Mile to a cure for cancer.

Like most PMC riders, I ride for those who have fought or who are currently fighting that big C word, and to hopefully make the battle easier for those who may have a fight in the future. Truly, this ride is a downright miniscule effort compared to the physical and mental heroics that I have witnessed from patients, doctors, nurses, caregivers and familes. We have all been touched by cancer. I will be riding in honor of those closest to me who have battled cancer - my husband, both of my parents, my two Uncles, my two Aunts and some of my closest friends.

I am new to cycling, inspired by my husband, an avid cyclist. He will be Living Proof rider, as, 18 months agao, he recieved a bone marrow transplant to cure a leukemia diagnosis that was both startling and heart wrenching. I am honored and blessed to ride together with my family, joining 2 additional families, in a PMC Re-Imagined ride this year. I would be most grateful if you would support my ride with a donation in any amount.

Since its founding in 1980, PMC riders like me have raised more than $1 billion for lifesaving cancer research, treatment and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, one of the country's top cancer care hospitals.

Each year 100% of rider-raised revenue goes directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure. I am particularly inspired by the fact that the DFCI has produced more cancer cure and treatment protocols approved by the FDA over the last 5-10 years than any other research facility. In fact, 50% of all FDA approved treatments have come from Dana Farber.

I thank you for supporting me and the ground breaking research to cure cancer. If you are donating to pay tribute to someone touched by cancer, please email me (pwblommer@gmail.com) so I can carry their name with me during the ride.

Thank you!!