I'm a proud supporter of the 2023 Pan Mass Challenge because it is leading a charge to beat cancer. In fact, last year 100% of rider-raised revenue went directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure.

I am inspired to ride in memory of many, but especially my housemate at Cornell University, Carol Andersen who was an impactful member of the Cornell Cross Country and Cycling Teams and wonderful young woman and friend.

Carol was diagnosed with Hotchkins Lymphoma after discovering a lump in her throat in the fall of our Junior year in 1987. Carol approached her disease with so much positivity and hope. She possessed such a wonderful spirit and outlook that you almost did not know she was battletling something so severe. Carol was never able to graduate from Cornell and we lost her in 1991 due to her cancer. She was a bright, kind, positive, athletic, vibrant young woman who left us too soon. I think about her often and all the wonderful things she did and those she impacted during her life. I imagine a fulfilling life that was far too short. I know many of her friends and classmates feel her loss to this day.

Please join me in supporting this important cause so that others may live long full lives.

Thank you so much for your support.

Michele Dowling Johnson