This year, I?m tackling my first-ever Pan-Mass Challenge?a two-day ride that?s long been on my bucket list. But this isn?t just any athletic event for me; it?s a personal battle and a symbol of hope. Cancer has deeply impacted my family: my mom has conquered breast cancer twice, most recently in 2024. That same year, at just 46, I was diagnosed with colon cancer and faced major surgery and months of treatment, finishing right before my 47th birthday in 2025. My uncle also fought bladder cancer the same time as me. Seeing those I love?and living through it myself?makes riding in the PMC a mission I can?t ignore.

Cancer shouldn?t be stealing futures. Colon cancer is now the top cancer for people under 50?far too young. It?s affecting people I know my age and younger, and that reality is both stark and motivating. I ride to change this, to raise critical funds that support Dana-Farber Cancer Institute?s world-class doctors, nurses, and researchers as they pursue cures and deliver leading-edge care.

This ride will be the most challenging thing I?ve ever done on a bike, but after thriving through cancer, it?s now or never. I?m pushing my limits for every patient, survivor, and family member touched by this disease.