Dear ,

Fundraising for cancer research and treatment continues this year, 2021, with the 41st Pan Mass Challenge. Many riders are virtual this year due to Covid19. A planned ride that is controlled without mass meeting points is in place. This continues my commitment to fundraise for cancer research in memory of my father, John J. Manning, Sr., M.D. which started after his death from cancer. I returned to the PMC again as a Virtual Rider for the tenth time and volunteering as a bicycle repair mechanic. I’ve completed the nearly 200 mile PMC 20 times. This is my 30th year being involved. I plan to pedal the 80+ miles on Sunday with my niece, Elizabeth Noyes.

I returned with increased vigor and resolve due my friend Larry Tummino and his treatment for brain cancer, and another good friend Rich Voyer, who recently passed from cancer. My neighbor Debbie, my wife's lifelong friend passed from cancer after a long hard fought battle. Condolences, Mike. I have kept contact with Larry and others to provide support. The loss of friend Louis Nisenbaum, who after a valiant fight succumbed to cancer almost nine years ago remains in my memory. Lou died on the 28th anniversary of Dad’s passing, 10/25/11. I remain personally motivated to ride for my sister Meg Noyes. The success of new time buying treatments has demonstrated that immunotherapy works.

In December 2011, Meg learned of her own melanoma after completing our bike tour with family in the Tour Ride Across Minnesota. With the spread of her cancer, Meg, participated in research medication trial of infusions for the past years. The EP1 drug was designed to attach to the tumor cells and program the tumor cells death and elimination. The cell matter processing out of her body comes with some issues where the filtering organs and glands require monitoring and occasionally medical treatment. Now, Meg no longer needs treatment as her body has learned to do what the PD1 medication did. She lives life as usual, traveling, entertaining, and having fun. I continue to honor John McDonnell, Katie Noyes McDonnell’s husband’s father, who passed at age 81 after five years of treatment.

I have met Dr. Ken Anderson whose research brought about the PD1 medication. He is one of the most successful researchers with his team at Dana Farber that receive our funds. As a virtual rider I will complete many miles throughout the year. My nephew, Kevin Michael Manning still completes the official ride of the PMC for his number 17 working to match my twenty years of riding. Our best to two year old Isabella Eve, her sister Emily Victoria and mother, Karen. Much love.

Five years ago, I was asked by Melinda Mann, a long time PMC rider, to join a new PMC team. I was invited to join the Patriot's Platelet Peddlers. Funds from the Team go to a restricted fund for the specific research led by Dr. Kenneth Anderson and his teams at Dana-Farber. After learning that this team led the clinical trials of EP1 which is my sister Meg's treatment regimen, I was convinced this was the right thing to do. Dr. Anderson's team has many studies in progress at Dana Farber with the best results for buying time managing cancer as a symptom and providing extended quality-of-life time as well as cures. Best to John T and Holly.

I still contemplate the litany of those I know and have known touched by cancer. We raised $9000.00 together in this effort last year. Family members Meg, Brian, brother Bob and neighbor Lynn battles with cancer motivates my continued fund raising for researching curative medications and treatments for cancer. Keep at it Jack. I truly still miss my friend Lou and think of him often. Dave, be safe on that longboard. You're the best in getting past that bone marrow transplant.

I hope all consider joining me along with hundreds of others who over 29 years have chosen to contribute for research and treatment of cancer. Thanks to your contributions, we raised just over $9,000 last year for research and treatment. Thank you for your contribution in support of my efforts. Since the inception of the PMC in 1981 the Pan Mass Challenge has raised $817 million to support its mission to provide treatment and research for people affected by cancer to date. Last year’s goal was surpassed, as $65 million was the record gift involving 6200 riders and 4000 volunteers. Dana Farber Cancer Institute receives 100 % of all contributions through the Pan Mass Challenge. The event and organization operates on rider registration fees.

I have continued my cycling in the mountains of New Hampshire and roads of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. I ask that you send your check to me made out to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, or you can contribute on this secure on line link.

http://www.pmc.org/egifts/KM0004

Carol, thanks for supporting this continued effort.

Still pedaling,

Kevin F. Manning