On August 4, 2012, I will be riding in my third Pan-Mass Challenge.  Although I have logged hundreds of miles over the past three years, I can still channel the fear I felt when I blogged on Facebook after riding on the road for the very first time.  Here's an excerpt so you can channel it too!

 “…The good news is, you only have to fall for the first time once. The bad news is, I am now terrified of the following, in this order: moving cars, other riders, potholes, parked cars, and hills. Oh, and I'm not sure I like my husband anymore... Aside from the above listed items, it was a glorious day. Hope you are all safe and sound and in one piece. I am very grateful I am.”

Fortunately, that fear has subsided, and now I am able to just enjoy.  Actually, I don't just enjoy; I bask.  My biggest concern in riding last year's PMC was that it wouldn't be as overwhelmingly emotional, inspiring, and life-changing as it was my first year.  It was.  I worried that I would no longer feel the very real presence of my grandmother Mimi and my good friend Joe Keefe, both of whom I'd held personally responsible for the unseasonably cool weather and for getting me up that vicious hill in Berkeley when gravity insisted on pulling me back down.  I did.

I don’t know if I can ever truly express what it feels like to be a part of the PMC.  That’s probably why I try to recruit everyone I know; I feel so strongly that everyone should allow themselves this experience at least once.  

 Here are some things you may not know about the PMC:

1.  The PMC is the nation’s original fundraising bike-a-thon.

2.  Today the PMC raises more money than any other athletic fundraising event in the country.

3.  Since its inception in 1980, the PMC has contributed more than $300 million to lifesaving cancer research and treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. 

4.  This year, 100% of rider-raised revenue will go directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s tireless commitment to finding a cure for cancer. 

I know many of you have charities that are close to your heart.  Throughout the year, we are all called upon by friends, family and the charities themselves soliciting our contributions.  You may also know other people riding the PMC and if you’ve already committed to them, GREAT!  But if not, I ask you to contribute now to this wonderful cause by making a tax-deductible donation in any amount that feels right to you. 

For online giving, please use the eGift box below.  If you would prefer to write a check, please make it payable to PMC-Jimmy Fund and send it to me at 110 Grove Street, Westwood, MA  02090. 

Thank you much in advance!

-Stacy

Stacy's PMC Total

$0

Goal

$4,000

My Progress

My Online Supporters

My Rides