I'll be riding my 25th PMC this year (wow!) - 192 miles on August 5 and 6 to raise money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Every year I look forward to challenge of riding across Massachusetts and the power of sharing this experience with thousands of riders all working toward one goal. Even the smallest donations will help me contribute to the funds raised for Dana Farber.

My first experience with the PMC was in 1997, as a waterstop volunteer on my father's seventh ride. For years he had asked me to come along and, as I spent hours making sandwiches and Powerade, I began to fully understand why. I could not believe the positive energy that surrounded the whole weekend or that people could be united so strongly in just 2 days.

I rode for the first time the following year - it was physically challenging, but it was an amazing experience and is something I look forward to each August. I ride primarily in memory of my grandmother, Carmen Nash, someone who was a large part of my life, but not for long enough. I also ride with my other grandparents in mind, Stephen and Shirley Brennan and Thomas Nash; my aunt, Jackie Lajuenesse; as well as many others who have been affected by this terrible disease.

Last year the PMC resulted in a $72 million donation to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute through the Jimmy fund, bringing it's 44-year total contribution to $972 million toward cancer research and treatment. This year the total donation to Dana Farber through the effors of the PMC will break one billion dollars!!! My personal goal for this year is $6000 to add to the $101,000 I've raised since 1998. 100% of all donations goes directly to Dana Farber; anything you can contribute will make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my efforts in the PMC since 1998; I'm extremely grateful to be a part of such an amazing and impactful event.