Why I PMC - Bradley Quitadamo

#WhyIPMC guest blog by Bradley Quitadamo, 2-year rider, Team Q Captain

On August 3rd and 4th, I will be riding 186 miles from Sturbridge, MA to Provincetown, MA in memory of my father, Richard Quitadamo. In 2013, I lost my father to Stage 4 sarcoma. He fought this horrible disease with courage each day, but it soon took his life in the same year. I take great pride in riding the PMC to honor his wonderful life and strong fight against cancer. Before being diagnosed, my dad raised money and rode the PMC for 17 years. Hundreds of supporters watched him cycle the sand dunes of Provincetown with a huge smile on his face. Biking was his favorite hobby, and it allowed him to raise money for a cause that he knew impacted many innocent lives. This is a testament to his selflessness, optimism, and bravery that drives me to continue the tradition on the exact bike that he rode on!
I recently began my nursing career at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the Medical ICU. I have cared for patients courageously fighting against cancer, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute sits right across the street, both of which act as a steady reminder of how impactful the PMC proceeds truly are. I ride for these patients and those who lost their lives to cancer, including my grandfather, Henry Wood. I am optimistic that riding these miles will bring us closer to a cure. My Dad and Grandfather will be there with me during the ride as we “get closer by the mile.” I am a strong supporter of the PMC as 100% of their profits go to the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to search for a cure. Last year, I raised $9,254, contributing to a team total of $16,854. I hope to surpass that total this year, with a goal of raising over $10,000. I am eager for the physical challenge and the chance to ride for those who can’t.