As I crossed the finish line and completed my first PMC last August, I was exhausted from the 186-mile journey and my body was screaming for electrolytes and a cheeseburger, but all I could think about was getting to do it all over again next year. Between the stunningly scenic ride, the incredible support from teammates, volunteers, and onlookers along the way, and the constant feeling of togetherness as we all rode towards a common goal - I was hooked. So for the second consecutive year, I couldn't be more excited to be joining Team Duncan / Team OOFOS and thousands of other riders on a two-day, 186-mile adventure from Sturbridge to Provincetown in an effort to raise funds to support the incredible work of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

While the 186-mile ride will serve as one of the more physically demanding experiences I’ve ever faced, it will pale in comparison to the physical, mental, and emotional battles cancer patients and their families are forced to fight on a daily basis. It is these patients and families that serve as the inspiration for my ride and fundraising journey - I ride for them. I ride for my friends and family members who are currently fighting/undergoing treatments, who are survivors, and who’ve lost their lives to cancer. And I ride for those who will benefit from the treatment, research, and care offered by DFCI for decades to come.

Having the honor of being part of Team Duncan and OOFOS’ PR team, I also ride for Duncan Finigan, a former OOFOS employee who, despite losing her battle to stage 4 breast cancer in 2019, continues to live on through the impact of Project Pink - an OOFOS initiative that has raised over $5M for cancer research to date.

And while I ride for all of those menitoned above, this year I am dedicating my ride to Marie Soucy - a longtime friend and colleague who lost her battle to pancreatic cancer in September 2024. Despite all of the pain, fatigue, and discomfort that came with her multiple rounds of chemo for nearly three years, Marie maintained her signature brand of sarcastic humor and stubborn toughness throughout - it is this strength that I will remember her by and carry with me throughout this year's PMC.

As part of my 2025 PMC journey, I’ve personally committed to raising at least $6,000 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute - and I would love your support in helping reach that goal. A few things to keep in mind if you’re able to donate:

- 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to Dana-Farber

- If there’s anyone you’d like to dedicate your donation to, please leave their name(s) in the notes section and I’ll be sure to carry them with me during my ride (I have a few ideas brewing for how this will work - stay tuned!)

- EVERY donation will mean the world to me, no matter how big or small

Thank you in advance for your support!

Cheers,

Jared