I will be riding in the PMC for the ninth time this year with my friend and former colleague Roberta Oehley. One month before the ride last year, she broke a bone in her hand when she fell doing a training ride-what a trooper she was to get back out there and ride. For the second year, we will be riding as part of the Pedals for Pediatrics Team. Why do I ride? I ride because there are far too many families and friends I love who are battling cancer or have lost the fight. I ride because many others have recovered and have gone on to live lives free of cancer. I don't think there is anyone out there who has not lost a loved one to cancer or supported a friend or family member going through treatment. My father, Bill Evans, was diagnosed with leukemia in January of 1990 and passed away one year later January 28th of 1991. He was only 54 years of age-I cannot believe he has been gone 34 years. I also lost a brother-in-law, Jim Lessard to radiation induced sarcoma and in 2016, a courageous young man and friend, Matt Roberge, lost his battle to leukemia the weekend of the PMC at the young age of 16.

Fortunately, there are many success stories. My mom was blessed to find someone to spend her life with 6 years after my dad died. Walter Twachtman is an amazing man who underwent extensive surgery for bladder and prostate cancer. Thank you, God, he is in remission: I am so grateful that with advances in medicine, he is alive and well as are many other friends and family members. Two inspirational former students of mine battled cancer and are now in remission and heading off to college next fall.  Right now, two of my closest friends are battling aggressive cancers. They will be in my thoughts and prayers every mile I ride. Research and newer treatments are being developed each year because of the funding from the PMC.

I am hoping that the weather will be sunshine and blue skies this year as we ride on August 2nd from Wellesley to Bourne. I cannot believe all the volunteers who help to make this happen every year. Every stop along the way is so well staffed with volunteers, food, drink and most importantly support and encouragement. The PMC raises millions of dollars every year for life-saving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I am grateful that the PMC channels 100% of every rider-raised dollar directly to the Jimmy Fund. The PMC has raised over $972 million since 1980!! With your help, I have fundraised over $55,000!

Thank you to all of you who supported my ride in the past. I am aware of how often you are asked to give to a fundraiser or event. I have committed to raising $5000. If you are able, you can go to www.pmc.org and search by my name. (Or my ID# is SHO244) Checks can also be sent to Pan-Mass Challenge, Susan Hanly (SH0244), 77 4th Avenue, Needham, MA 02494. Please know that any donation is very much appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please keep me in your prayers as I train and take part in the PMC this summer.

God Bless you, Sue