We’ve all seen it; the nasty impact cancer has on our lives. Whether it’s watching our family and friends battle this terrible disease or our own personal struggles against it, cancer affects everyone. Three years ago I made a choice that has since changed my life. I decided to take a stand against cancer.

For me, cancer has left a giant void that will never be filled. I was only a year old when my grandfather passed away from skin cancer. I never had the chance to get to know him. I never had the chance to meet the man that I’ve heard so many amazing stories about. I only have other people’s memories, and to me, that’s not enough. He is why I ride, he is why I fundraise and he is why I will never give up.

This year will be my third time riding the Pan Mass Challenge, a 192 mile bike ride across the beautiful state of Massachusetts to raise money and awareness for cancer research and treatment at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Last year, the riders and volunteers of the PMC raised an astounding $35 million for the DFCI to continue their research to better their diagnoses and treatments. I am personally thankful for every single dollar raised as I have seen 5 women in my family win their battles with breast cancer. It is because of the advancements made in their treatments that I get to see them at family functions; happy, healthy, strong. It is because of your donations that they can call themselves survivors.

Unfortunately, I’ve also seen the other side of cancer -- the physical damage it puts on the body, the mental toll it takes on the mind, the emotional strain it causes, and in the end, the helplessness of defeat. I watched as it took the life of a very close family friend. I hope to never go through that again. I hope that no one has to go through that pain of fighting a losing battle. She is also why I ride, she is also why I fundraise and she is also why I will never give up.

So please, take a few minutes, donate a few dollars, and help save a life. You’ll be happy you did.

Thank you for your support. Thank you for your belief in this cause. Simply, thank you!

Meredith

eGift: MM0489

Total Raised

$20

Goal

$4,500

Progress