In early April we gathered to hear the current and previous Team Perry Fellows from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute share their current work—the clinical trials they are leading, the science they are pursuing, and the brave patients they are treating. Dr. Maoz spoke of his work to pioneer early detection systems for pancreatic cancer, and Dr. Surana spoke of the basic science he and his team are doing to better understand why some pancreatic cancer patients have better outcomes than others. As I sat there listening, I felt immensely grateful to be a part of this Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) community that is tenaciously pursuing bold breakthroughs for some of the hardest and most heartbreaking cancers. It’s been 14 months since we lost my brother Greg to pancreatic cancer and while it pains me that he won’t be able to benefit from their research, I’m inspired to know that someday because of their efforts---and ours---others will.

This year’s ride promises to be amazing. Our nephew, Tyler, has joined Team Perry, bought a bike, and registered to ride from Wellesley to Provincetown on August 2nd and 3rd! It has already been powerful to share this experience with him, and I know we are just at the beginning of creating something enduring together.

I was overwhelmed by the generosity and support of our community for the PMC last year. Thank you for showing up so graciously for us! I ask that you join me again this year---at a time when funding for scientific research is more important than ever---in lending your generous support to finding a cure. 100% of every dollar raised goes to Dana-Farber.

With tremendous gratitude and love,
Megan Rising