This year, I will be riding in my first Pan-Mass Challenge in honor of my father and everyone touched by cancer. I originally signed up with my cousin in mind - a brave man who has fought an on-and-off battle with cancer for over a decade. Thankfully, his remission is now projected to be long-lasting, thanks in large part to breakthrough treatments from Dana-Farber.

Sadly, my father’s journey with cancer had a different outcome. Earlier this year, he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. In just a few short months, we watched as this cruel disease took him from us. It began with a seizure and rapidly progressed - robbing him of his ability to walk, speak, eat, and finally, breathe. He faced it all with courage and grace, and I will carry his strength with me every mile of this ride.

The Pan-Mass Challenge has raised more money for cancer research than any other athletic fundraising event in the country. I’ll be riding alongside thousands of others, united by one goal: to find a cure and end this disease for good. Any support - whether through a donation, sharing my story, or words of encouragement, would mean a lot.

-Jared