Dear Family and Friends,

I am writing on behalf of the Pan Mass Challenge. I rode my first PMC in 2002, and am grateful to be able to participate in what has become the single biggest fundraiser for cancer research at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Jimmy Fund Clinic.

The PMC is a 200-mile bike ride across Massachusetts with all the monies raised going to research and other programs at DFCI/JFC.

This year I have committed to raise $5000.00 for this cause, but I need your help.

This event is especially close to my heart for many reasons. For the past 18 years I have had the privilege of working in the Jimmy Fund Clinic, as a pediatric oncology nurse. As a result, I have been directly involved in the care of many wonderful children and their families. I consider it a privilege to work with these children and it is only through research that we are going to be able to provide what these kids and their families want most of all, a cure.

In 2002, I rode my first PMC ride in honor of my friend Andrew Butch Malacaria. Though I only knew him a short time he inspired me and several other friends to ride 200 miles. He set such a great example of someone who did not let his cancer define him. His sense of humor and how he carried himself will always stay with me.

In 2004, my father, Ed, was diagnosed with lung cancer. He received treatment, which consisted of surgery, aggressive chemotherapy, and radiation. Words cannot describe what it was like to watch someone I love go through the side effects and complications that are associated with this horrendous disease. I don’t know what I would have done without my family and friends during this time.

My Dad died at home surrounded by his family on Saturday January 13, 2007. One month later his first grandchild, my nephew, Sean Edward was born. My Dad had said many times that he was going to do his best to “stick around to meet the baby”. I honestly believe that was his motivation to hang on as long as he did. It was and still is incredibly frustrating and disappointing that my Dad is not able to physically be a part of Sean’s life.

I ride for all of the above and so many more. This year I have the honor of riding with Dr. Toni Choueri, a physician at Dana Farber making great strides in Genitourinary oncology. Our team will also be directing our funds raised to his research. I have witnessed the struggle of this disease both professionally and personally. Cancer sucks. Please help me raise money which will go to inspire and continue the research that is needed to cure cancer. Any amount you can contribute makes a difference and is greatly appreciated!

Thank you so much for all of your support!!!

Love,

Kristen