On August 7th and 8th 2010, I'll be cycling 163 miles (262 km) across parts of Massachusetts (Wellesley to Provincetown) to raise money for cancer research.  This is my 2nd year doing this fantastic event and last year with the support of dozens of friends and family we raised $4615!  The event itself raised an amazing $30,384,200 USD dollars last year alone.  This year I'm aiming to raise $6300.  Please support me as I ride in support of cancer research.

Wow.  Before last year I had never really tried to raise money before.  I signed up for the PMC knowing I was on the hook for at least $4200 (whether I raised it or not).  I honestly didn't think I could do it.  However, I was quickly amazed at the generosity so many of you showed to this amazing cause.  Together, we shot past my fund raising goal ($4615 total) and we helped raise over $30 million dollars last year alone.

One of the things that makes the Pan Mass Challenge so special is that all the money we raise goes directly to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute http://www.dana-farber.org.  No money comes off the top to cover the expenses to put on this ride.  The PMC covers all expenses through corporate sponsorships and rider registrations.  You can feel great that every dollar you donate is going directly to cancer research.

I've been blessed with the good fortune and physical health to be able to participate in a handful of endurance events in my life (marathons & triathlons).  However, nothing has been even as close to as rewarding as my PMC ride last year.  During the 2 day event, riding 163 miles through beautiful Massachusetts, I was constantly surrounded by friends, other smiling riders and an amazingly supportive crowd of people constantly lining the streets and cheering for us at each break area.  I quickly realized that my ride was so much more than a physical challenge like a marathon might be.  It had real meaning and purpose.  There were no timing clocks. There were no finish medals.  There was just an amazing feeling of taking part is something significant.

Here are some pictures from last year's event: http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatupwilly/sets/72157621969339871/

I've committed to raising at least $4200 again this year.  However, after the outpouring of support last year, I'm aiming to raise $6300 this year.  It's what the PMC calls a heavy hitter goal :)  I would be honored if you helped me reach my goal.

There are so many amazing charities out there (http://www.charitywater.org, http://www.livestrong.org/, http://www.redcross.org/) and they all could use your help.  However, no donation to the PMC would be too small.

Cancer is something that has affected all of us one way or another.   Last year, many of you shared your stories with me and I held them close to my heart while I rode and they are still close to me.  I would be blessed to continue to hear stories of how cancer has impacted your life.

Please join me in being part of the cure.

Thank You!

Will

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