Growing up, seeing my cousins was a weekly occurrence. Whether it was just a quick stop by or a week long camping trip. As we are all in just a few years of each other my family members were my best friends. On November 13, 2012, my older brother Evan lost his year long battle to DIPG which is a rare form of brain cancer. This loss devastated my family and left a huge hole no one can fill. As Evan was four years older than me I was just about 6 years old when he passed. I remember knowing he was sick but not understanding what it meant when he was no longer with us. For as long as I can remember Evan was the spark that brought so much laughter and joy into the family. When he passed I believe we all wanted to keep that same spark alive. The Pan Mass Challenge was the best way for us to do that.

Every year for the last 11 years my aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends come together to ride in the PMC. This one weekend brings so many people together all to reach one goal and that is to cure cancer. As soon as I came of age I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of this ride. Now I participate in the 50 mile ride along side my sister and some of my cousins while our parents complete the two day ride. I am now in my second year of riding and I plan to do it for many more. I ride to keep the spirt of Evan alive.