11 Days to Go

(Originally written on July 26, 2011)

Myra Kraft passed away last week, after a battle with cancer. She was an amazing woman, giving so much of herself over the years. She ran the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation; was active in the Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, the American Repertory Theater, and the Combined Jewish Philanthropies, among others.

In addition, for more than 30 years, she supported the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Her husband, Robert, is a Dana-Farber trustee. I don't know if she ever rode the Pan Mass Challenge, but I would not be surprised if she had! 

Given her work with children, she would have enjoyed riding by the summer camp in Brewster. Every year the campers line up alongside the road, cheering and doing the "wave" as we ride by.

 Here is a rider's view of their cheer.

I committed to raising $10,000 for cancer research this year and to pedaling the 190 miles from Wellesley to Provincetown. Over the next few weeks, I will share more of last year's videos with you, so that you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the ride.

I have a fabulous support team for the ride, including my wife who has been volunteering for the PMC for many years. In fact, for every two riders, there's one volunteer -- a team of more than 2,500 volunteers who help ensure that the event is successful.

And I have built a team of financial supporters over the years, several hundred people who donate $10 or more (averaging almost $150 per person). Without this second team, the PMC would be just another weekend bike ride.

With your help, we will raise $35 million this year for cancer research, with fully 100% of all donations going to the Jimmy Fund and the Dana Farber. 100%!

The ride starts in 11 days. I have training and fundraising to do. I appreciate your support.

Best,

Lee

To donate, please visit https://www.pmc.org/egifts/MakeADonation.asp?eGiftID=LL0033