Friday, September 30, 2016

Ride Beside Me

Over the past 19 years, the Pan Mass Challenge, and its critical fundraising for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, has been an important part of my life. I’ve made many friends, lost more than a few to cancer, and have grown tremendously.

The Pan Mass Challenge became a cause for me a few short miles into my first ride on that Saturday morning in August 1998. Since then, I’ve raised almost $120,000 for cancer research, connected with many people I would otherwise have never met, found a job through PMC connections, had great experiences, and much more. Through my "cheerleading" for the cause I’ve developed a voice, a way of being, and of being present, that I’ve brought into the rest of my life.

During the Jewish New Year services we  recite a poem, Unetaheh Tokef (Let Us Cede Power), where we ask:

    How many will pass and how many will be created?
    Who will live and who will die?
    Who in their time, and who not their time?

Life is uncertain, so let’s make the most of it. Let’s not squander our talents, our skills, our fortune, our opportunity. Let’s also not get bogged down by our "situation", the stories that can rob us of our power. With this awareness, I live each day with strength, presence, and a focus on creating value.

I have not taken this journey alone. My wife, family and friends are my key partners, adventurers, along the way. Fellow riders are part of the team. My sponsors and supporters – you – have been a powerful source of influence and motivation. You have been fundamental to my success, our success, and the success of the Pan Mass Challenge and the Dana Farber.

This year I committed to raising $10,000 for cancer research, and the PMC expects to raise a total of $46 million. I need your help to reach those goals. As you know, 100% of the money raised goes directly to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, funding critical cancer research and care. The Dana has made tremendous strides over the years.

Still, we need your help. Would you please make a donation of $25, $50, $100 (or more) today, supporting our shared goals?

With love,

Lee

To donate, please visit http://www2.pmc.org/profile/LL0033 . All donations are 100% tax deductible.