Cancer sucks. Inherently, we all know this. Unfortunately, the vast majority know this from personal experience, because either they or someone they love has had to battle this terrible disease. Roughly 2 million people were diagnosed with cancer in the United States last year. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in our country. It killed over 611,000 in the US in 2024, which is about 1,680 deaths per day. That is a staggering and heartbreaking number, and is also a number that unfortunately keeps growing. The good news is that number has dropped 27% since 2001, thanks in large part to institutions like Dana Farber Cancer Institute and their incredible work on research and treatment. The PMC has been a major player in their ability to do what DFCI does. It is the largest single fundraising event in the US, and to date has raised over 1 BILLION dollars for Dana Farber and cancer research. These dollars raised are more important now than ever with changes in research funding. This is why I ride.

I would love to be able to say that the above is the only reason I ride – for cancer research in general. But the truth is that I ride for my family and friends. I ride for my dad, who battled cancer twice and ultimately lost his battle with melanoma 7 years ago. I miss him terribly and know that he would have loved the chance to spend much more time with his family and see his grandchildren grow into the amazing humans they are. I ride for my friend Amie, who lost her long and arduous battle with ovarian cancer 9 years ago and was denied seeing her boys grow into incredible men. I was there with them both at the end, watching what cancer ultimately did to them, and wishing for nothing more than an end to the suffering that cancer causes. I realize the toll this disease takes on not only the people fighting, but on all the people who love them as well. This is why I ride.

Every year, I realize how incredibly fortunate I am for my health and the ability to continue riding. Every year I have another friend who is not so lucky and gets news that turns their lives upside down. Every year I hear about another person who is diagnosed and now has to battle cancer and hopefully have a successful treatment. But let’s be honest; it is a battle that too many have to endure. I know I am lucky so far. I know there are many who are not. This is why I ride. 

My personal goal this year is to raise $13,000 and put my lifetime fundraising over $70,000. It is a lofty goal, and I so appreciate every single donation to my ride, as do all the people who will ultimately benefit from the funds raised. The reality is that statistics show we all have a chance of needing the benefits of this research at some point in our lifetime ourselves, and a 100% chance that we will know someone who does. EVERY PENNY raised goes directly to DFCI to use wherever it is most needed. The research they are able to do benefits not only their patients, but all cancer patients. I know the ONE BILLION dollars the PMC has surpassed in fundraising has saved so many lives and will save so many more. I am so grateful that I can ride for others who can’t. This is why I ride.

XO,

Sue