PMC 2024 is upon us! I am beyond excited to feel the PMC energy this year with riders from around the country biking for one single cause: to find a cure for cancer. 100% of every dollar I raise for PMC will go directly to Dana Farber Cancer Institute for cancer research and treatment. This will be my 10th year fundraising for Dana Farber through the PMC.

So, why have I dedicated 10 years to fundraising for Dana Farber through the PMC? Here is my family’s story:

When I was in elementary school, my mom was diagnosed with a rare cancer called Ewing Sarcoma. The odds were not in her favor and to help motivate her to get through it, her nurses promised her something. They said that when she got better, they would ride the PMC with her. When she beat her first cancer, she held them to it, and she started Team FLAMES with her nurses. Since they started the team over 20 years ago, my mom has survived two more cancers and the team has grown substantially.

I have always done the PMC in honor of my mom’s fight against cancer, but I now ride for my dad as well. A few years ago, my family received the news that my dad was diagnosed with a chronic form of Lymphoma called Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia. His cancer was detected early, which makes it very manageable right now. This early diagnosis is a testament to the advances in cancer care from funds that we have helped raise together, as many years ago he would not have been diagnosed this early.

I think about how lucky I am to be 32 years old and still have my mom in my life. She is turning 64 this year. Before her birthday, I asked my mom if she was excited for it in which she replied, “I think I’m a little different than other people. I’m just thankful to have one. She is living proof of the progress that has been made in cancer research and treatment. I feel forever indebted to Dana Farber for saving her life. I also feel hopeful. I know that if my dad’s cancer gets to a place where he needs treatment, he will be able to receive some of the best care possible from Dana Farber.

My goal is to raise $8,000 this year to bring us closer to a cure for cancer. It is always incredible to hear about the advancements that have been made with the money we raise. Our team supports a group of Dana Farber clinicians and scientists that have developed two molecules, which they open-sourced resulting in three new drug therapies that will change the face of numerous cancers. None of this would have been possible without funds from the Pan Mass Challenge. If you would like to join me in the fight against cancer you can donate to my ride. Every dollar counts and I appreciate your support so much.

More than likely, cancer has touched each and every one of your lives in some way. I would love to ride in honor or in memory of your loved ones that have lost their fight to cancer or are battling through it. Please send me their names and I will write their names on my jersey to power me through the weekend. PMC weekend is one filled with so much love and hope, and I greatly appreciate your support.