#WhyIPMC, guest blog by Erin Hall - 1st year rider
Cancer knows no bounds. I lost my grandmother to cancer in the winter of 2020. My grandfather
has also battled and survived his cancer diagnosis for several years now. My grandmother
displayed admirable stoicism and bravery throughout her battle with cancer. My grandfather has demonstrated perseverance and strength as his life has changed drastically following his cancer diagnosis. As a triathlete, I have always considered participating in the PMC as it would give me a chance to do something I enjoy - which is ride my bike. However, in light of the events of recent years including the passing of my grandmother and the challenges that my grandfather has
faced, I cannot think of a better time to participate in the PMC and positively contribute to a cause that will benefit so many. Finding ways to contribute to others by giving time and effort has served as a foundation for me throughout both my collegiate ice hockey career as well as my professional ice hockey experience and I am confident that participating in the PMC will allow me to continue my commitment to these principles.
Since this will be my first time riding in the PMC, I am hoping to honor my grandmother’s life
by surpassing my fundraising goal in order to further cancer research so that losing a loved one to cancer is merely a thing of the past. As a pediatric nurse at Boston Children’s Hospital, my immediate focus is on how I can help patients in their greatest moments of need. Similarly, my goal for participating in the PMC is to help patients indirectly by continuing to raise awareness
and funding. As a nurse, I have been able to witness the inspirational strength that all kinds of patients possess and I am excited at the prospect of being able to ride alongside both cancer survivors and patients. Although I cannot bring my grandmother back, I can model the bravery she showed in her diagnosis to fuel my ride! Here’s to getting a little bit closer to finding a cure for cancer!
