#WhyIPMC guest blog by Mohammed Abdelaal, 1st-year Team Kermit rider
Many things in life don’t feel real until they affect you. Cancer is real, and I have yet to come across anyone who was
not affected by it. Last year, my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, she's still undergoing chemotherapy and barely able to manage the devastating impact of this disease. My sister is one example of many people I know who struggled with this disease and it’s truly motivating to see many courageous people fight this disease on daily basis. Eradicating cancer is at the core mission of the PMC, and I'm learning that what they do is very special. I want to be part of this mission and do something to help cure this horrible disease.
This is my 1st year getting involved with PMC, the Pan-Mass bike-a thon. And I have to say, I’m thrilled, ecstatic, and everything in between, but mostly, I’m humbled!. Through this journey, I’m getting connected to incredible people. Folks who, since the eighties, took this challenge and made it their mission. Steven Branfman, who I consider a mentor, a trusted advisor, and above all a great friend, is the captain for Team Kermit, a team of trailblazers who ride every year to help the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute with their mission. Steven lost his son Jared at a very young age to cancer, and Kermit the frog was one of Jared's favorite childhood characters who represents the ability to never give up and to assure that everything will be okay, hence the team’s name.
Team Kermit rides the PMC in honor and memory of all of the people whom our teammates hold dear. What brings us together as a team is friendship and the common bond of honoring and remembering our family and friends. I’m grateful to be part of this great team, and I truly hope to make a difference in the lives of everyone who deals with cancer.
On August fifth I will be riding from Sturbridge to Bourne, MA. The ride is 110 miles- and yes, it will be brutal- but nonetheless, I have already started my training. With the current weather, I hit the gym 3 times a week and ride my Peloton, and on Sundays I walk ten miles wearing a 25-pound weighted vest.
I’m riding for my sister, for Jared, and for everyone who's been affected by cancer. I would appreciate any amount that you can donate, as I have committed to fundraising at least $4,000 in order to participate. 100% of rider-raised dollars go directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure.
