Hello friends and family and anyone else!

If you are not one of the lucky few who have endured my complaining over the last few months about training in the Houston heat and unflattering cycling uniforms, then you were probably surprised to learn I'm riding in the Pan-Mass Challenge this year given this is my first foray into cycling. After years of cheering on my husband (Andrew), brother-in-law (Mitch) and father-in-law (Rob), I decided to join them in the 2 day, 160 mile bike ride from Wellesley to Provincetown, Massachusetts on August 2nd and 3rd.

The Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) is an annual bike-a-thon that raises money for lifesaving cancer research, treatment and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The funds we raise support the innovative work of doctors, nurses, and scientists in their search for cures for cancers and related diseases. The PMC raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country. Since its founding in 1980, PMC riders have raised more than $1 billion for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

I am riding in honor of Andrew's aunt, Susan Pessotti, and a dear family friend, Chris Rand, who lost their lives too soon to cancer. I'm also riding in hopes that our son, Bobby, can grow up in a world without this horrible disease.

After months of training, Andrew and I are feeling nervous but ready for the race and are ramping up our fundraising efforts. To that end, I am reaching out to humbly request your support. 100 percent of every dollar we raise goes directly to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. It is also tax deductible. If you cannot decide whether to donate to me or Andrew, pick me! Just kidding, we are working together to fundraise as much as possible and will match the first $3,000 we raise. We truly appreciate any amount you are able to contribute and believe that it will make a difference.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

xo,

Katie