My 16 years working at Dana Farber caring for patients going through radiation treatment could not prepare me for the strong emotions I felt when my own niece was diagnosed with cancer. For the past two years, I have had the honor and privilege of riding for Team Kermit and I am glad to be continuing this. All funds raised will go directly to Jared Branfman’s Sunflower for Life fund for pediatric brain and spinal cancer research at Dana Farber.
This year’s ride differs from my previous rides because it will be in honor of my niece Morgan. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, making this past year extremely difficult. Her days were filled with chemotherapy, dialysis, long hospital stays, and endless doctor visits. She was very sick, and faced so much while battling cancer.
I am extremely happy to say that Morgan is now in remission, and her life is now filled with normal 18 year old activities: school, college acceptances, proms, concerts, shopping, and eating lots of sushi. Although Morgan missed out on so much this year, she handled everything with bravery, courage, and admirable strength. Even on the most difficult days, she held her head up high and always looked for the positives around her. She is truly the strongest girl I know.
Morgan has reminded all of us to view life in a different way: to appreciate each moment and never take anything for granted, especially our health. She taught me to celebrate all the good things in life.
It is an honor to work at Dana Farber Cancer Institute and care for patients while they are going through some of the hardest times in their life. The Pan Mass Challenge is a major source of funds for cancer research and I am able to directly see the impact that donations have for our patients. 100% of donated money goes directly to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
One of the most powerful quotes about the community involved is: “The PMC community is waiting for the email that says ‘the PMC has been canceled, the cure for cancer has been found.’” This encapsulates the energy of the PMC as a whole, and I hope that this has inspired you to consider playing a part in my personal journey to fund cancer research.
Please consider making a donation to my PMC ride this year. My commitment to the PMC is the 50 mile ride, and I have already started training. I know that I will crush it.
50 years young and a 50 mile ride on August 6,2023.
With deep appreciation and gratitude,
Melissa Smith
