Dear friends and family,

In two weeks, I will be riding in my 14th Pan Mass Challenge (PMC), the biggest fundraiser in the country to support cancer research.

Last year, the PMC surpassed raising ONE BILLION DOLLARS for cancer research, since its inception in 1980. It is an amazing achievement, and I am so proud to be a part of it. Our team attended the billion dollar party in November and had a blast (see below).

This year, my group (an incredible group of 9 women, who are a part of Team LAUNCH) will ride 165 miles from Wellesley to Provincetown, MA over two days, August 2-3.

Every year, our group has a vibe, and this year, we are honoring the living proof—those who have survived a cancer diagnosis and treatment, in large part due to research at Dana Farber.

Until this year, 3 women in our group had been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer before the age of 50 (one of the women had it twice). Unfortunately, now that number has increased to 4 women in our group, with a Stage 1 breast cancer diagnosos in January.

The good news is that with cutting edge clinical trials and research, she has been able to avoid chemotherapy because of a new drug, and this riding season, she has been as strong as ever. She rarely misses a ride—as it gives her great comfort—both physically and mentally. Indeed, her riding gives us all HOPE—hope for early detection, hope for for less invasive and effective treatment, and yes, hope for cures.

But this year brings yet another major challenge—that of funding. While the PMC is doing its part, the federal government has pulled back on funding cancer research. The government's proposed cut to the NIH budget could cause a negative impact to Dana-Farber—anywhere from $50 million to $200 million over the next four years. NIH grants fuel the science that saves lives. Losing funds means stalling progress. Slowing the momentum in our fight against cancer.

This year, with the 4th breast cancer diagnosis to my group, and with the reality of less funding for the kind of research that has helped this teammate, I even more motivated—to never waste an opportunity to ride when I can, and to work harder at fundraising.

For those who know me, this is unusual request: I ask you to consider MORE giving. if you have never given to my ride, I would be thrilled with a donation. And if you have given, I ask you to increase your donation. This is for all of us.

The PMC is more important than ever. It is the largest single contributor to Dana-Farber. When others may pump the brakes, the PMC community accelerates. Please join us.

To date, I have raised nearly $150,000. More importantly, our small, but mighty Team Launch (which was a heavy hitter in 2024), has raised well over 2 million dollars!

Your donation is tax-deductible and 100% and every penny will go to Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts.

As the PMC slogans say, we have a lot riding on us, and we are getting closer by the mile.

Best wishes and stay healthy!

Wendy Fischman