For years I've seen my Baba, uncle, and several of their friends dedicate their time and energy into the Pan Mass Challenge. Last year I gathered the courage to join them on the 82 miles journey from Wellestey to Bourne and it was one of the best decsions I have made. The atmoshpere the riders, volunteers, and Boston community bring to the race is extremely motivational, heartfelt, and inspirational. Specifically when you see by standers cheering on riders with posters of Thank You and photos of people they are riding in memory of or in honor of. Riders trade stories and shed tears at rest stops. I am compelled to be a bigger part of this amazing commoradery and endeavor to raise critical dollars for pediatric brain cancer research at Dana Farber Cance Institute. As you know my big sister and best friend, Ellie died of the most horrible pediatric brain tumor, DIPG when she was 11; I was 8. I am now 21 and this will be my second of many PMCs and I am grateful to be able to ride with my Baba and Uncle Dimitri and their team, Biker's Dozen. With your help we will continue to make advances, better understand what drives pediatric brain tumors and develop better treatments all while pursuing a cure.

I miss my sister in every way. I want to ride so I experience the inspiration for myself and feel Ellie's presence throughout my cycling journey.