#WhyIPMC guest blog by Michael Quinn, 3-year rider
Cancer affects us all, and we can all do something about it. For me, this means riding in the PMC, and I ride for
my wife, the Joy of my life.
In January 2022, my family was rocked by Joy's diagnosis of a rare form of cervical cancer. After undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation at Dana-Farber, she was cancer free...until it came back in fall 2023, when she was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma on her lungs. Once again, she received world-class care from the Institute for several months, and her cancer is stable. But if it progresses again, we know just where to go.
Dana-Farber has given us more time with Joy, and this has meant everything to me, our daughter Catherine (10) and son Mikey (7), and all who know her. It is why I started riding in the PMC in 2023, when I did the 25-mile ride from Babson to Patriot 
Place. Last year I did the 50-mile Wellesley loop, which was especially exciting because the route took me through Norfolk, where I live, and where I saw friends cheering me on.
Equally inspiring, however, were the passionate people I saw throughout my ride that I did not know, but who also helped make the day so special. I think of the patients who gave moving testimonials at the starting line at Babson College, and the young Pedal Partners whose pictures lined the road. I think of fellow riders looking out for each other’s safety and well-being as we ride, all excited to being pedaling together for a purpose. I think of the awesome volunteers throughout, especially at the well-stocked water stops full of wonderful food and drink to keep me going. I smile when I think of one guy who expressed amazement that I made it up the hill on my ancient 25-year-old bike— which is now old enough to get married and have its own bike children, if it was able to reproduce!
And I will never forget seeing Joy and the kids at the finish line, reminding me yet again why the PMC is so important—for us and for countless families like ours across the world.
The PMC is truly an experience like none other, a time to live fully alive, mindful of those living with or lost to cancer, and uniting with so many committed riders, volunteers, and supporters to bring cures closer. It gives us back the power to do something about an often-disempowering disease for the sake of those we love and for those that they love. What would you do for your friends and loved ones affected by cancer? We aII know someone, so I hope you will consider helping them by supporting my ride. Just click here to make a donation, and (if applicable) click here to see if your company will match your gift. Since 100% of funds I raise with your help go directly to Dana-Farber's life-changing cancer research and care, every dollar you contribute truly makes a difference.
Please know how much I appreciate your generosity and be assured that I will keep you and your loved one(s) living with or lost to cancer close to my heart as I ride in my 3rd PMC on August 3. Thank you.
