Why Do I Ride?

Once again, I’ve found myself reflecting on this question—especially since more than one person has asked: Didn't you retire from the PMC last year?” Fair enough. After all, I am now 65... a senior citizen, and training for nearly 100 miles on our hilly local roads isn’t exactly easy. But with too many dear friends facing cancer, stepping back this year simply isn’t an option.

So, I ride. I ride because supporting cancer research is deeply personal, incredibly purposeful, and profoundly meaningful.

It’s been 13 years since my own diagnosis—locally advanced breast cancer. A terrifying chapter that changed everything. And while I’m grateful to be here, living with hope and strength, cancer remains part of my life today... not something in the rearview mirror. A wise friend once told me: “Work like it depends on you, pray like it depends on God.” That advice still grounds me. Every day, I choose to live with intention—grateful for the gift of each new day, and determined to do my part to keep cancer at bay.

So, yes—I’m back in the saddle, training for the Pan-Mass Challenge. While I’m lucky to once again ride alongside my son, Dan, the ride itself is no small feat (I’m no spring chicken!) A morning on the golf course, floating on the lake, or time with my husband or grandchildren are all far more appealing than another long ride in the heat. But I committed to this journey across Massachusetts, and I’ll do what it takes—some hill work, longer rides, and maybe a prayer or two—to be ready.

I never know what the weekend in August will bring—a flat tire, hot sun, pouring rain—but I do know that this ride fills me with purpose. It reminds me of the strength of community and the power of hope.

What gives me strength? Knowing that 100% of rider-raised dollars go directly to cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I’ve seen the impact firsthand—I've been part of a clinical trial made possible by past PMC donations. Breakthroughs like blood tests to detect circulating tumor DNA before recurrence, more targeted therapies, and treatments that enlist the body’s own immune system—these are the advances that give real hope. More time. More life. More joy.

This year, I’m riding for the many I carry in my heart:

For the survivors, the warriors...Clare, John, Maria, Renee, Kristine, Sue, Julie, Gina, Bryan, Bill, Mike, and Jack… and especially for my sisters, Maureen and Christine. Having watched you face cancer with courage and grit has left no doubt that #CarneyStrong is a true superpower. I’ll also be riding in memory of beautiful souls who left us too soon - Sharron, Diane, Robin, Tracy, Mike, Jeff, Bryan, Maryalice, Annemarie - and for so many others who have faced, or are facing, this disease with unshakeable strength.

Every mile I ride is for them. For all of us. I may get tired, but I will not quit.

If you’re able, I would be so grateful for your support. The PMC donates 100% of every rider-raised dollar to Dana-Farber through the Jimmy Fund. Together, we are truly making a difference.

With gratitude,

Tara