Saturday, May 9, 2020

2020 PMC...Reimagined

The masked riders (me and Ian)
Despite this morning's snow (yes, snow on May 9!), we are fully into spring, the beginning of my Pan-Mass Challenge training season. 2020 marks my 17th PMC, the annual two-day, 190-mile ride across Massachusetts. I'm thrilled once again to be a part of Team Kinetic Karma as we strive to kick cancer to the curb!

However, due to the pandemic, this year's PMC is going to be quite different than previous rides. The 2020 PMC is being "reimagined" in order to protect the health and safety of the riders, volunteers, and staff. Therefore, there will be no official PMC ride on the first weekend of August, as has happened every year since 1980. I was disappointed to hear this decision, but it is unequivocally the right one. While my favorite weekend is not going to happen like usual this year, the fight against cancer will continue.

Taking a break at Scituate Lighthouse
I'm still figuring out what my PMC will look like this year. One thing I have committed to, though, is riding a LOT! While practicing social distancing, of course! So far this season, I've ridden 207 miles, more miles by this date since 2013! I will soon announce my reimagined PMC plans, and will keep you updated on my progress!

Riders are being urged to continue to fundraise, and I am ready to take on that charge. While COVID-19 has taken away attention from other worthy causes (rightfully, in many ways), cancer doesn't follow social distancing guidelines. People continue to be diagnosed with and treated for cancer. And the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute continues to deliver world-class treatment and care to cancer patients. The need for your support of the fight against cancer has never been greater. In these difficult times, I know many are struggling to meet their financial obligations, but I plan to continue to fundraise to the best of my ability so that Dana-Farber's front-line, essential workers can continue to save lives.

I appreciate your support as my fellow riders and I embark on the reimagined PMC in these strange times. As always, 100% of your donation will go directly to Dana-Farber in support of innovative cancer research and compassionate cancer care. Together, we will STILL make cancer HISTORY! Please donate today! Thank you.