In addition to grieving the loss of loved ones, Schwartz faced numerous physical obstacles. During his thirteen year hiatus from the PMC, he battled Lyme disease three times, had both hips replaced, and underwent back surgery. Despite these challenges, Schwartz was determined to ride and raise money for the annual bike-a-thon.
“These obstacles were relatively easy to overcome compared to what cancer patients deal with on a daily basis,” says Schwartz. “The courage and strength exhibited by my mother and friends when they battled cancer is what motivates me to continue to spin my wheels for the cause.”
This year, Schwartz will ride alongside his daughter, Stephanie, 20, in what will be his fourth and her second PMC experience. In addition, his friend, Joan Barry Walsh, will ride with them for the second consecutive year in memory of her sisters. Together they will embark on the two-day 190-mile PMC route from Sturbridge to Provincetown. Schwartz has already reached his fundraising minimum by sending emails to his contacts and posting to his Facebook page. The father-daughter duo hopes to raise a combined total of $15,000 for the cause.
From left to right: PMC veteran Stuart Schwartz and his daughter, Stephanie, during their 2013 PMC ride.
Post courtesy of Allison at Teak Media + Communication