In January 2021 I got the worst news of my life. My mother had been in the hospital and called to tell me that a biopsy revealed she had stage 3 ovarian cancer. I will never forget that moment for the rest of my life. I was shocked and scared, I couldn't believe what I was hearing, but most of all I felt helpless.
I kept asking myself, what can I do to help her?
My mom was admitted into Dana-Farber shortly after her diagnosis and immediately, we knew it was a special place. The team of doctors and specialists came up with a treatment plan that was completely unique to her and her cancer. They were so knowledgeable and made her feel that she was in the best hands possible. Curing cancer is what they do.
I wanted to be there for her and make sure she felt supported. I called her every single day to check on how she felt and help her stay positive through intense surgery and chemotherapy treatments. My mother is the most optimistic person I know, and I admire the positive attitude she maintained through the whole process, despite the ups and downs. I can't imagine her handling it in any other way, but I know that working with Dana-Farber gave her confidence that she will beat her cancer.
Last summer, I finally realized what I can do to help...
I'm a proud supporter of the PMC because it is leading the charge to beat cancer. Last year 100% of rider-raised revenue went directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber's commitment to finding a cure. I have donated to the PMC in past years, but this will be my first time riding in the event. I look at it as a great challenge to help support the incredible people at Dana-Farber who saved my mother's life.