On the first weekend of August, I will be riding the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) for my first time from Wellesley to Provincetown (162 miles) to raise money for cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Since 1980, PMC has raised over $1 billion and this year I have a goal of raising $6,000 to help contribute. I will be dedicating my ride for PMC this year to a few special people from my life: my Grandma Madonna, Grandma Annie, and Grampy.

Grandma Madonna has been fighting cancer for the past two years. Throughout the ups and downs, she has proceeded with grace and determination. My entire life she has been such a rock for everyone around her, showing how to be a calming and comforting presence no matter what she is going through. As one of the most kind and generous people I know, Grandma Madonna will always be such a role model to me.

Grandma Annie passed away in 2018 from cancer. Even in the thick of it, she always had a happy and eager attitude to simply enjoy being around the people she loved. You could always count on her to brighten up the day by going out blackberry picking with you or spitting out a witty comeback when someone needed to get knocked down a peg. I will always remember her as someone that knew the perfect balance of joy, laughter, light-heartedness, and love that everyone needed in the craziness of life.

Grampy passed away in 2022 from cancer. He was the best cheerleader you could ask for, truly loved watching others succeed, and was so outspoken about his love for the people he cared for. I cannot count the amount of soccer games, track meets, musical performances, or other events he would always show up at to support me. Rain or shine, he was always there with a big smile waiting to give the biggest hug. Grampy is the reason why this PMC ride is extra special for me. For 6 years, he and my Dad rode PMC side by side or on a tandem bike for Team Martignetti. This year I am excited to be able to continue the tradition for another generation by riding alongside my dad on Team Martignetti.

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this extraordinary event and support the wonderful work that is being done for cancer research. Please help me in reaching my fundraising goal of $6,000, of which every dollar goes directly to Dana-Farber Cancer. Your donation is tax deductible and please remember corporate matching opportunities.

You can donate to my ride at https://donate.pmc.org/RF0213 or by writing a check payable to “Pan Mass Challenge” with the Rider ID: “RF0213” in the memo line. Any checks can be mailed to me at 21 Haymeadow Road, Boxford, MA 01921. Thank you for any funds and support you can give; I really appreciate it!