Why I PMC - Dawn Zencka

#WhyIPMC guest blog by DAWN ZENCKA, 4-year Living Proof® TEAM SLALOM rider

2025 is a meaningful year for me. July 13 marks my fifth anniversary of being cancer-free and it's also my fourth year riding the PMC with Team Slalom.

I think most of you may know but back in January of 2020, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Before I could even begin treatment, I contracted COVID-19. My care plan was suddenly uncertain, and the fear of the unknown was pretty big. But thanks to my incredible care team at Dana Farber, who met the moment with empathy and rigor, I had a personalized plan that gave me time to manage my diagnosis before surgery. Their expertise—and the research and resources made possible by donors like you —made all the difference in my recovery.

That experience drives my commitment to the Pan-Mass Challenge, and it’s what keeps me fundraising and training year after year. The PMC funds breakthrough cancer research and compassionate care at Dana-Farber, helping ensure more patients get the kind of support I did.

This year, my participation looks a little different. A knee injury has kept me off my bike for now, so instead of riding the official PMC weekend, I’ve joined as a reimagined rider—training on my own timeline and planning to complete my ride later this summer. To stay active and motivated, I’ve returned to another love: swimming. It’s a change of pace, but the purpose remains the same.

And let’s be honest—I love cycling. It’s been part of who I am since I first rode my white Schwinn LeTour around town as a kid. Riding has always been my ticket to freedom, connection, and movement. Through the PMC, it’s become my way to give back—to say thank you—and to pay it forward.I ride for myself. I ride for my friends and their families who have faced cancer. I ride for the future.