Dear Friends & Family,

On August 6th and 7th I’ll be riding with 5,000 other cyclists in the 32nd Annual Pan-Massachusetts Challenge. The PMC is an annual bike-a-thon that raises more money for charity than any other single event in the country. In 2010, the PMC raised $33 million and since 1980 has raised nearly $303 million for cancer research and treatment at DFCI through its Jimmy Fund. The PMC donates 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar directly to the cause and in 2010 it was Dana-Farber’s single largest contributor.

I’ve committed to raising a minimum of $4,200 and cycling the 192 mile 2-day route that begins in Sturbridge and ends in Provincetown. I’ll be cycling alongside my fellow teammates of Team Forza-G who have warmly welcomed me to their power team (with me being a complete novice). Although this may be my most challenging and daunting feat yet, I’ve never been more excited and proud to be part of such an inspiring and result driven event.

There are many reasons why I decided to participate in the PMC this year. From growing up on the Cape and seeing the rush of riders pass by our house each year; to volunteering last summer with my company (General Catalyst Partners) at the Wellfleet water stop and witnessing the incredible journey of each rider. But most of all, I’m riding in honor and memory of so many who are fighting or have lost their fight with cancer.

I ride for Glenna Kohl, a high school acquaintance who lost her battle with Melanoma at age 26, far too young and beautiful to be taken from this world. I ride for Sarah O’Brien, a co-worker and friend who in February of 2011 was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma and is currently undergoing rigorous treatment (Update 7/1: Sarah is now cancer free - such a strong fighter!!); a Boston Marathon finisher, whose positivity and strength amazes me each day. I ride for Judy Riley, my sister-in-law’s mother whose smile and loving nature never falters despite recent challenging times. And I ride for so many other loved ones, families, and friends who have been impacted by cancer.

Please join me in the fight against cancer and help me reach my goal of $4,200. Together we can raise vital funds for cancer research and be one step closer to finding a cure. Any contribution you can make is appreciated. If you would like to donate I have provided all the information at the bottom of this e-mail but please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions at all. I also recommend visiting the PMC website page to read about more inspiring stories, and how the PMC came to be today.

Thank you so much for your support, and if you happen to be on the Cape the weekend of the PMC look out for me in a Pink Forza-G shirt