This year I will cycle my 11th Pan Mass Challenge ride. I know that during my ride, I will shed many tears as I ride memory of my husband, Reid who died in 2014 from Multiple Myeloma, With a heavy heart, I ride in memory of my nephew Bodine who died at age 37 while under treatment for leukemia. I ride in loving memory of Ben, an amazing young man.

For my friends who are currently undergoing cancer treatment, you will be with me during the ride - I will be thinking of you as the miles past. I pray for the best possible outcome and mental and physical strength to endure the burden of cancer.

I ride the PMC because I can. I ride the PMC as a “living proof” rider. I am part of a special group that has been touched by cancer, undergone treatment, and now has moved on. I ride embraced by the support of so many cancer survivors.

The PMC weekend brings enormous strength, energy and a hope that each mile we peddle will bring us closer to a cure for cancer.

Please donate to my PMC ride at online at: http://www2.pmc.org/profile/LG0117. If you prefer to write a check, please make it out to the PMC and mail it to me directly at: Louise Gerhart, 22 Grasshopper Lane Acton, MA 01720.