Why I PMC - Betty McEnaney

Why I PMC guest blog by Betty McEnaney, 14-year volunteer and one-year rider

Why do I PMC volunteer? 
 It’s easy.  I am hooked.  Big time.
 I have been a Jimmy Fund Boston Marathon Walker for the past 16 years.  The volunteers are so important over that 26 miles, that I knew I needed to do something to help out the Jimmy Fund and DFCI as a way of expressing my thanks to the folks that help out on the Walk. 
 
August 2013, I volunteered on the luggage crew in Wellesley on a Friday night and Saturday morning.  From that first weekend on, I knew I would be back every year.  For the next 12 years, I did the same thing, but after I finished in Wellesley I beat the trucks to Bourne and worked luggage on Saturday until everyone has found their bag under the tent at the end of their ride, and then loaded up on Sunday morning.  The past three years I have been able to work kitchen duty at PMC Unpaved in the fall.  Another great event to build PMC’s annual donation to Dana Farber. 
 
I have seen first time riders with the jitters as they bring their things to the truck.  I have seen people in every size, shape and age come to the truck with their bags and tents.  I have seen a fellow, with one leg, ride his bike to the truck carrying his prosthetic to be delivered to the other end.  I have watched the take off in the morning when it is barely light out, and I have seen riders who are soaking wet and shivering uncontrollably arrive in Bourne.  Every single one of them is a hero!
 
It’s all just amazing.  For those three days, my one and only goal is to make their lives just a little easier.  We ask if they have everything before their bags are buried in the truck.  We help them put on their tags.  We help them find their bags in Bourne.  We give a high five or a pat on the back.  These folks are miracle workers.  They have all raised a significant amount of money, and some have brought in a staggering amount.  Every one of us have stories about friends/family who have been cared for by DFCI.  This is so very important.
DFCI needs these riders, and if I can help them do it….that’s what I will do. 
 
See you in August!