In just a few short weeks, I’ll be back on the bike joining Team Kevin Fitz for my 6th Pan-Mass Challenge. I returned to the PMC last year after some time off, and the experience reminded me exactly why this ride is so important.

Cancer continues to affect the people we love — our families, our friends, our coworkers. It doesn’t stop, and neither can we. Every person at the PMC is there for a reason. Whether they’re riding, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, we’re all united in one goal: to help put an end to this horrible disease.

My connection to this fight began when I was young. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and while I didn’t fully understand it at the time, I could see how much strength it took for her and our family to get through it. Thankfully, my mom was able to fight and is able to call herself a survivor.

Eight years ago, my father-in-law, Big Leo, passed away from cancer. He was the kind of man who showed up for everyone. He loved his family deeply and built a foundation that continues to grow through his kids and 12 and counting grandkids. We still laugh and tell stories about him all the time — but we also wish he were here to keep making memories with us.

I ride in honor of him. I ride in honor of my mom. And I ride for all those still in the fight.

Please consider supporting this amazing cause. 100% of every dollar goes directly to Dana-Farber to support lifesaving cancer research and care.

Every mile matters. Every donation counts. Let’s keep going — together — until there’s a cure.