This August will be my 6th year riding in the PMC and I'm still incredibly inspired by this amazing event and its cause. I'm riding in memory of my close friend, Alison Fracassa who lost her battle to cancer in May 2021. Alison, being a true warrior channeled her strength and positivity and founded team We Will in 2017 while undergoing treatment at Dana Farber for colon cancer. Knowing that participating in this event with Alison would help give hope to all those battling cancer meant that this was something I had to do. Our team of riders has grown each year and become our PMC family. We laugh, cry, sweat, and cheer each other on across every mile, up every hill and I couldn't do it without them. We ride for many different reasons but are united in the same cause of finding a cure for cancer.

Three years ago, Alison lost her battle with cancer and I miss her every day. Watching Alison's 5-year journey has changed me forever. I will always be grateful to the incredible dedicated team of doctors at Dana Farber that gave Alison precious time with her family and friends. Although Alison's journey is over, we continue the battle for all those fighting cancer. Our commitment to Alison and the PMC will continue. The PMC has taught me that together we can make a difference and being a part of the solution makes us all better people.

On August 3rd, I will be riding 84 miles from Wellesley to Bourne. I am committed to raising $4,000 for this year's ride. Cancer never stops, so I'm very proud to support a cause that goes directly to cancer research. The PMC is unique in that 100% of all donations go directly to the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber Cancer Institute. I want to thank everyone who has donated to my past rides. Now, I need to ask for your help again. Your generosity at any level is valued by so many, especially me. I'm hoping that my tiny part will make a huge difference. No dollar amount is trivial, it all adds up...hopefully to finding a cure.

Thank you for your support!

Melissa