This will be my 8th ride in the PMC. Historically, I’ve dedicated this ride to far too many family members and friends. This year I’m riding as “Living Proof”. In early January of this year, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. A few weeks later, I was undergoing surgery to remove the tumor and a small part of my lung. I am now cancer free and I did not require any additional treatments beyond surgery. A week before I was diagnosed, my brother Michael was also diagnosed with prostate cancer. His surgery was a couple of weeks after mine. Similar to my story, they were able to remove all of his cancer and he did not require any additional treatment. I’m happy to say his recovery is going well and he feels great.

Nothing can prepare you for hearing a doctor tell you that you have cancer. There is a before and there is an after hearing those words and there is not a single way for a person to deal with it. My first post surgery scan is in August. I’m doing my best to not worry about it, but worrying can’t be completely avoided. I’m confident cancer is behind me, but until I have the first scan, I’m going to worry. Michael has his first post surgery scan this month. I know we will all feel better once these scans are in our rearview.

Also want to note that both my sister Angela and nephew Tim remain cancer free for several years now. Their fight against cancer was more challenging and their strength and perseverance carried them through and they are living life to the fullest.

One of the best things about the PMC is that 100% of all money raised goes directly to charity. I’m proud to be a part of the PMC again this year and welcome any and all contributions. No fight against cancer is the same and we can't compare our story to anyone else’s. I believe the goal is the same for all of us though. And that is to defeat this disease, to live a full and happy life and to spread hope however we can.

Peace – Paula