#WhyIPMC guest blog by Ken West
It happens almost every time I wear a PMC shirt or hat.
"Do you ride the PMC?"
"No, but my radio station partners with the PMC."
"Wow, that's cool."
Working at a radio station, here's another conversation I hear:
"You work at a radio station. Are you on the air?"
"No, I'm not that talented."
"What do you do?"
"I'm the Program Director."
"What does that mean?"
It means I'm responsible for everything you hear on the station and many behind-the-scenes aspects. But mostly, I work with highly creative and talented staff putting together fun promotions and events. And the PMC is one of the biggest. It's a 7-month team commitment and our staff is all-in (commit, you'll figure it out, right?!).
It starts in January: writing, recording, and airing promos (think commercials, but more fun) inviting listeners to join our WROR PMC Team. Our team includes air personalities (Loren Owens, Brian Bell, Hank Morse, Julie Devereaux,) Marketing Director (Jamie Martel,) and listeners. We change the promo messaging every 2 months, incorporating Kids Rides, the Sunday one-day routes, and encouraging non-riders to donate to our team or to someone they know.
My final Saturday stop is Bourne to see the riders come in, ending phase one of their amazing journey.
So, now to "Why I PMC?" (took me long enough, right?) This whole experience with all of you has been incredibly moving. It's one thing to read about it, or even have someone tell you about it. But experiencing it brings unrivaled energy, spirit, and passion. It's a community of riders, PMC staff, volunteers, Living Proof Riders, Pedal Partners, families, friends all working together. And everyone is SO POSITIVE. We know cancer (a word I will never capitalize) sucks. But I don't see the PMC as sad. I see it as a celebration. A celebration of hard work, commitment, community, and legacy and respect for those we've lost. It's more powerful than cancer will ever be. We've all lost too many loved ones, including my Father-in-Law Rick. But the PEOPLE who PMC make me feel like we WILL get closer by the mile to a cure. You're why I PMC.