I'm a proud 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.

I am riding this year in honor of my father, Stephen McSherry, who courageously lost his hard fought battle with cancer this past January.

My father Stephen was everything to me and my family. He was a real life hero and the ultimate family man.

He also had the best sense of humor and could never pass up an opportunity to throw out a one liner or crack a joke.

Throughout his treatment and time at Dana Faber we could not have asked for a better team and support system. The staff are just one in a million and truly treat every person individually with the care and comfort they deserve.

My hope in riding is to raise even more awareness and support for the teams at Dana Faber and for people like my father who faced this horrible disease head on in a fight until the bitter end.

My father will be with my brother and I on our 2-day bike ride to Provincetown, with his memories keeping us laughing and smiling along the way.

No one should have to deal with this brutal disease. Ever.

So with this ride, I join in the goal that unites us all - a world without cancer.

100 percent of every dollar I raise goes directly to Dana-Farber, meaning that your donation has a real impact.

If you are unable to donate online but would like to contribute, please make checks out to Pan Mass Challenge.

Checks can be mailed to

Janine Smith

87 Cowing Street, WestRoxury MA 02132

Thank you!