I'm a proud supporter of the PMC 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. My son and I are riding together and working hard to raise $8000 jointly. A donation to either of us, is a donation to both of us. Thank you. Declan's PMC donation page is https://profile.pmc.org/DR0288
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There isn't much of my life where I don't remember being directly affected by cancer. The first memory being losing my step grandfather when I was young to malignant skin cancer that metastasized. Our journey with Dana Farber began in 2006 when my son Declan was diagnosed with an ATRT Brain Tumor. Then in 2019, I lost my dad to pancreatic cancer, just days before the PMC. These experiences are on top of many other friends and loved ones who have been impacted by this terrible disease.
Our family has dedicated ourselves to honoring and remembering all of our loved ones impacted by this disease. Our family has walked in the Boston Marathon JFW and raised desperately needed funds for brain tumor research for years, and still does. Declan, now a long-term survivor of his cancer, was a Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk Hero, and then became a PMC Pedal Partner to the Stem Cell Cyclist and Team Kermit. He’s also ridden in a few PMC Kids Rides.
The year we met Steven Branfman at the PMC, Captain of Team Kermit, we realized many connections - including our families were supporting and funding the same cancer research. Team Kermit was formed for Steven’s son Jared. Jared was never able to ride the PMC because he was in treatment, and the team now rides in his memory.
As I prepare for our first PMC, it fills me with joy and honor to ride with my son Declan. My view on the road will be of him in front of me, riding Jared’s bike, given to him by Steven. For every mile we ride I will remember my Dad, and recall our time doing charity rides in the past, where he used to say my daughter gets me into all these things” with a mix of pride and love in his voice. I will honor Jared, and cherish my son, with every mile.
So many connections, so many circles, so many reasons to we need funding.
