On January 30, 2014 my dear aunt Dana Parker lost her 4 year battle with a rare form of cancer called liposarcoma. I remember Auntie Dana as my mom's best friend, the fun aunt who would organize all the family trips, and one of the kindest people I have ever known. I was just 10 years old when my Auntie Dana passed away, but I can remember that while she fought this disease with everything she had, she continued to be a warm and nuturing influence in our family. She always made us feel special and loved, and she was the greatest cheerleader of her children and all her neices and nephews.

In 2014, my mom rode in her first PMC, and we were all was so excited to watch her cross the finish line. This year, I am excited to ride in my fourth PMC and my first 100 mile race so that I can honor my Auntie Dana's memory and help support the efforts of Dana Farber to find a cure and end cancer forever. I dedicate my ride this year to my Auntie Dana, who received wonderful treatment at Dana Farber. I know that when I cross the finish line, Auntie Dana will be cheering me on louder than anyone.

I am excited to be riding as a member of Team Sarcoma Cycling Brigade. Our team has been deeply touched by sarcoma (a rare form of cancer comprising just 1% of cancer diagnoses) -- from battling the disease or taking care of loved ones who are or who have lost their battle, to the highly talented DFCI research and clinical staff working tirelessly in the quest for a cure, while developing new treatment protocols and providing compassionate patient care. I hope you will consider donating to my ride and helping the PMC and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute get closer by the mile to curing cancer.