Dear Friends and Family,
In August 2000, I embarked on my first Pan-Mass Challenge, supported by my cherished family and friends. The weekend was a whirlwind of emotions—filled with both sorrow and joy, but above all, it was brimming with love and hope. Brendan and Abigail, then just 4 and 5 years old, cheered me on alongside my parents. Little did I know how profoundly that experience would shape me, my family, and our fight against cancer.
The Pan-Mass Challenge taught us the true meaning of love, friendship, and the importance of giving back. We were heartbroken by the loss of Stephen to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 1999, but each year we honor his memory and the memories of so many others through our ride.
Over the past 25 years, we've seen remarkable advancements in cancer care and research. Yet, cancer remains a disease that affects us all. Each year, I dedicate my ride to those close to my heart, and for the past two years, my ride has been dedicated to my mom, Jane Tegan.
In November 2021, Jane was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. I have spent countless afternoons at Dana-Farber with her, witnessing firsthand the exceptional, compassionate care provided by her doctors, nurses, and the entire cancer team. The impact of the Pan-Mass Challenge at Dana-Farber is truly remarkable. I am thrilled to share that Jane is doing well. This year, in addition to honoring my mom and Stephen, I am dedicating my 25th PMC ride to the memory of my dear friend, former colleague, and long-time PMC volunteer, Lorraine Rizzo.
I am deeply grateful for your continued support and generosity over the past 25 years. To date, I have raised over $160,000, and I am committed to raising an additional $10,000 toward the PMC's 2024 fundraising goal of $75 million. As of now, the PMC has raised over $40 million this year alone and has surpassed $1 billion since its inception in 1980!
Every dollar you contribute goes directly to Dana-Farber's world-class research and cancer care. The funds we raise support groundbreaking work by doctors, nurses, and scientists in their quest for cures. Dana-Farber, one of the top three cancer institutions globally, has been instrumental in developing nearly one in four FDA-approved cancer drugs in the US over the past decade.
Thank you for being a vital part of this important mission. Your support makes a difference in the lives of countless individuals fighting cancer.
With heartfelt thanks and gratitude,
Susan
