It's hard to believe it's been over eleven years since we lost Rich, beloved Father, Husband, Brother, Uncle and Godfather, and since I decided to honor his life by taking his place on the Patriot Platelet Peddlers team as a committed Pan Mass Challenge rider and fundraiser. Since then, the PMC has been my constant passion, fueled by the satisfaction of my contribution -- as small as it may be -- to making a difference in the lives of so many who've benefited from Dana Farber's cutting edge research, compassionate care and support. And while the years have brought more tragic reminders of the scourge of cancer, with more lives we've celebrated too early, they've also brought remarkable advances in cancer treatment. Thanks to the work of Dana Farber's Dr. Anderson, for whom my Patriot Platlet Peddler's team proudly rides, multiple myeloma outcomes continue to improve significantly since Rich was diagnosed. This work also has tremendous benefits for the fight against all blood cancers with which multiple myeloma shares many characteristics.

I am thrilled to be taking on this 190 mile ride yet again in honor of Mom, Dad, Rich, our Aunt Gail and all who have fought so courageously, and those who continue to fight. This year will be even more special for me, as my sons Tim and John, who for years have worked the PMCs as volunteers, will be slogging through the 190 mile ride beside me. I am also thrilled by the prospect of an extremely loyal group of generous supporters coming through once again. My supporters boundless generosity continues to amaze me, and I am forever grateful.

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and generosity!