My son and I are riding together and working hard to raise $12,000 jointly. Mel's minimum to raise for her ride is $6000 and Declan's is $4000. 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.
Last year I was filled with pride and joy riding my first PMC side by side with Declan. My view on the road was be of him in front of me, riding Jared’s bike, given to him by Steven. For every mile we rode I remember my Dad, and recalled 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 wish I could say our time after that first ride was easy. But alas we lost more beloved family and friends to cancer, and Declan struggled with side effects from his own treatment. It wasn't an easy year. But we never give up hope, and we know with the help and donations of so many caring people, we WILL find better treatments and someday a cure that will help so many.
So, back in the saddle and on we ride.
