I'm back!

After reluctantly sitting on the sidelines for the last 2 years, because of post-surgery complications, I'm thrilled to tell you I'll be back on the bike this August. Needless to say, the indoor trainer is no longer collecting dust, and come spring I'll be hitting the road.

All the monies that Paul's Posse raises goes to research funds for the so-called orphan cancers like mine -- cancers that don't get as much attention or funding.

Since being diagnosed with cancer in 2006 it has been a journey, albeit one with a great many bumps along the road. All things considered, I am still very lucky. Over these past years, I have met other cancer “Thrivers” and we all share an incredible sense of hope and optimism that one day this horrible disease will be eradicated and that the anguish for both patients and their loved ones will stop.

I have and continue to take this challenge seriously, and more than ever I want to be a part of the effort to search for a solution. Before my diagnosis, I was actively raising money for cancer research, but in reality, cancer was a concept, a bad thing that was happening to other people. Today, I am a patient. Today, I know other patients, and we understand the importance of cancer in an all-too intimate way. I cherish every conversation about tomorrow, and I know you agree that the best tomorrow will be one that's cancer free.

I know that like me, you want to know where your hard-earned philanthropic dollars are going. Here are a couple facts:

1. 100% of the proceeds from this event go directly to research at Dana-Farber, to world-class doctors doing cutting-edge, vital work.

2. If you want proof of impact, look no further than me. Those same world-class doctors didn't just change my life, they saved it!

I was deeply disappointed not to ride for the last two years. I think that's because it's impossible to overstate how important this is to me and, how I deeply I believe in the mission of these doctors and researchers.

In addition to donation, I'd like to ask a favor. It would be wonderful if you would solicit a donation from one other friend or family member. Just think of how much more money we could raise in our effort to rid our lives of this horrible disease if we broaden our network of giving.

Thank you for your support,

Thrive on,

Paul

I have attached a link to a video for your viewing pleasure. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZS50m7w8F-E. It was created by my friend and videographer, Sharon Sullivan, who wanted to tell my story of Thriving.  I think it captures beautifully what the PMC, and Paul's Posse, are all about. Watching it reminds me of how fortunate I am ! (Please feel free to pass on this letter so someone else can see the video)