30th PMC Gala and Check Presentation – Saturday, Dec. 5

 The Pan-Massachusetts Challenge will celebrate its 30th annual contribution to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in style.

This year’s annual check presentation party will be held at the beautiful and very cool, new House of Blues on Lansdowne Street in Boston Dec. 5. PMCers get your tickets here. (You will need your PMC ID#)

The 30th PMC Gala and Check Presentation will celebrate the amazing commitment of PMC riders, volunteers and supporters who braved a tough economic climate to meet the demands of the PMC and help fight cancer in 2009.

And, it promises to be a great time for all. The dress code is denim, so wear your favorite jeans to party the night away.

Once again, the PMC donation to Dana Farber will represent 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar. The amount of the donation is kept secret until the event. The gala includes dinner and cocktails, a speaking program, special guests and the check presentation by PMC Founder Billy Starr to DFCI President Dr. Edward Benz. Then, there will be plenty of time for dancing and celebrating. Two bands will play well into the night.

The PMC expects about 1,000 people to attend.

The check presentation tradition started simply in 1980 when Starr gave the check to then Jimmy Fund Chairman Ken Coleman in the parking lot of the Jimmy Fund building. Over the years, the check presentation has had many forms: a mid-week luncheon at Jimmy’s Harborside, a slideshow presentation and dinner at Dana-Farber, a winter bicycle parade at General Cinema in Chestnut Hill, a day at Fenway Park that included tours of the field, and a gala at the Boston Convention and Expo Center. Curious about more PMC history – check out our 30 Years in 30 Weeks series.

Read about the 2008 check presentation event here and here.

The 30th PMC was held Aug. 1 and 2, where 5,000 cyclists biked up to 190 miles to raise money to fight cancer. The bikers raised a minimum of $1,000 to $4,200 depending on which route they chose. On average, 90 percent of all PMCers, exceeded the minimum fundraising contribution and one-third raised more than twice the amount required. The ride is made possible thanks to 2,800 volunteers and dozens of corporate sponsors.

The check presentation will bring the 2009 PMC season to a close and get us all excited to kick off the 2010 PMC season. Registration begins in January.

More on the PMC Bridge to Progress

The Pan-Massachusetts Challenge and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute celebrated 30 years of PMC history last night with the rededication of the PMC Bridge To Progress, which connects the Smith and Dana buildings at DFCI.

The skywalk bridge is a PMC museum of sorts, with displays of photographs, t-shirts, rider jerseys, and other memorabilia from the past 30 years.

The bridge was first created in 1997 and until this year, reflected PMC weekends for the first 18 years. Now the bridge is up to date with memories of all 30 years of the PMC. It’s a much more accurate depiction of what makes the PMC a magical event.

The PMC Bridge to Progress is a tribute to the PMC and all of the riders, volunteers, financial supporters and corporate sponsors who have made the PMC the most successful athletic fundraising event in the nation. The names of PMC Heavy Hitters and those who have reached “lifetime achievement” status, by raising $100,000 or more, are listed on glass placards on the bridge. Their names, and the total sum the PMC has raised, will be updated annually.

The ribbon is cut at the unveiling of the newly renovated PMC Bridge to Progress. PMC founder Billy Starr, left, with Dr. Edward Benz, DFCI president

Here goes!

In addition to the incredible sum of money the PMC has raised for cancer research and treatment over three decades, Dana-Farber President Edward J. Benz, Jr., said the PMC’s brilliance comes from the community it has created.

“You can’t experience any part of the PMC and not be inspired by it,” Dr. Benz told guests at the bridge rededication celebration. “The most important aspect of the PMC, along with the money it raises, is the spiritual atmosphere it creates for all who are involved.”

Billy Starr rededicates PMC Bridge to Progress | NECN

 The Pan-Massachusetts Challenge and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute celebrated 30 years of PMC history last night with the rededication of the PMC Bridge To Progress, which connects the Smith and Dana buildings at DFCI.

Watch the NECN coverage here.

(NECN: Boston) – An exciting night for the Pan Mass Challenge and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

PMC founder and executive director Billy Starr cut the ribbon to rededicate the PMC Bridge to progress.

The bridge serves as a tribute to the 30 years of support the PMC has given Dana Farber.

The annual bicycle ride has raised nearly 240-million dollars for the Jimmy Fund since 1980 – a number that will grow when this year’s total is announced in December.

The PMC Bridge was built in 1997. The rededication celebrates the PMC’s 30-year commitment to Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund.

When a Child Knows Someone with Cancer

PMCer Amy McMahon invites all PMCers to this free event Sunday, Oct. 18.

 

PMCers are welcome to invite family and friends to When a Child Knows Someone with Cancer: Helping Young Children Cope with the Cancer Diagnosis of a Loved One, taking place at WGBH, One Guest Street in Brighton this Sun, 10/18, 2-3:30pm.

The event, hosted by WGBH, will include a special preview of the new ARTHUR episode, THE GREAT MACGRADY, in which Arthur and his friends learn to cope with the news that Lakewood Elementary’s beloved lunch lady has cancer. Lance Armstrong makes a special, animated appearance in THE GREAT MACGRADY, which makes its broadcast premiere on Mon, 10/19 and already has caught the eye of a TV Guide senior writer who included it in TV Guide’s Hot List for the week.

Following Sunday’s screening at WGBH, an expert panel will discuss new cancer-related resources for families and teachers, and answer questions. Free resources for parents and educators also will be available. This free event is open to the public, ages 16 years or older (sorry, this event is not appropriate for younger children); those interested should RSVP in advance at http://support.wgbh.org/site/Calendar?view=Detail&id=102761.

Stories From the Field: PMC riders recap PMC weekend

Now that we’ve all had a chance to rehydrate, sleep and recover from the 30th annual Pan-Massachusetts Challenge, dozens of local riders are sharing their favorite memories and personal stories.

Here are a few.

The Amesbury News recaps first time PMCer Kristin Beauparlant’s ride.

Beauparlant, a nurse, rode the PMC in honor of her late patient, PMCer Beth Bennett. NECN featured Beauparlant in the opening ceremony, where she was on stage with Bennett’s bike – which she also rode in the two day ride.

Here’s what she told the Amesbury News:

“This [past] weekend was one of the most amazing and inspiring moments in my life,” Beauparlant said. “What a great event. When the (NECN) piece was done, I looked out in the audience of thousands and to have them all-standing and clapping was absolutely amazing. It just brought tears to my eyes that this story of mine was able to inspire others.”

Newton Tab editor Gail Spector also shared her PMC experience, writing a first person essay.

After writing about the stress of training and fundraising, Spector made a quick realization on PMC weekend:

She writes: “And once again, like the years preceding this one, I was caught up in what turned out to be an amazing day. Probably the most productive day of my year. So what if training is a little inconvenient? Is it really that big a deal if fundraising is hard? Does any of this compare with the pain my father suffered? Or what my mom went through while taking care of him? So what if it’s hard?

“I rode my bike 84 miles to be part of something great that has raised at least $250 million by now for cancer research. What else do I have to do?”

Chris and Stephanie George of Danvers shared their first PMC experience with the Danvers Herald.

Chris writes: “To see crowds of people lining the streets with dedications to loved ones who passed away, as well as living cancer survivors was truly a humbling experience. Stephanie and I rode in memory of her dad and my grandmother, both of whom passed away from cancer. In the end, we realized that the PMC is not about the personal achievement — it’s about what the thousands of riders and volunteers, who are strong and able, are able to give to others: life, hope and a chance of curing this dreaded disease.”

Boxford and Topsfield PMCers share their story here

Among them was second-year rider Laurie Rundlett, who says: “My second year riding in the PMC was a whole different experience than my first. I was much more prepared for it this time around. I trained hard, knew when and what to eat and drink and how much, and pushed myself harder than I thought I could…I wore a photo of my Mom on my back and so many people made comments on it. Climbing the big hills, just when you think you can’t go any further, someone comes along and tells you “great job” or “keep pushing!”… When all is said and done, I will have raised over $8,000 for the Jimmy Fund in 2007 and 2009 combined. My job isn’t done though. I’m already planning for 2010, and have started recruiting new riders to join me next year in the fight against cancer.”

PMC veteran Brenda White keeps her fundraising efforts going all summer long at Revere Beach, according this story in the Lynn Daily Item.

And read al about some great volunteers from Sharon in the Sharon Advocate.

Many more riders share their persona accomplishments, triumphs and experiences from PMC weekend. Read about riders from Saugus,  Beverly, Melrose  , Norwell , Medford , Sudbury  , Hamilton and Wenham, and Rockport .

Even though PMC weekend is over, the fundraising continues. Visit pmc.org to make a donation and help the PMC meet its $30 million goal.

Pan Mass Challenge — Day 1

 

After an amazing opening ceremony last night, PMCers hit the road at 5:30 a.m. pedalling up to 100 miles on the first day of the two day event.

Riders met Pedal Partners in Lakeville, enjoyed a lunch break and Dighton, and partied in Bourne. It was a great day 1. Here  are some photos:

NECN Opening Ceremony

 

We had a great time meeting PMC Pedal Partners in Lakeville today!

NECN Opening Ceremony

The PMC takes over NYC

 An eager bunch of PMC cyclists from New York got up early to show their PMC spirit to the nation.

The perky group of pedalers and volunteers: Susan Fier, Marlo Bakst, Paul Straton, Robert Goodman, Maureen Errity, Claudine Kipp, Ed Gallagher, Brittney Gallagher, Erin Gallagher, Anthony Cook, James Kotarski, who were equipped with caffeine, PMC shirts and a PMC banner, made their way over to the CBS Early Show Plaza at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue to get some air time and spread the message of the 30th annual ride.

PMCers at The Early Show

They attracted the attention of former Bourne resident and Early Show Weatherman, Lonnie Quinn, who introduced the crowd. The riders gave a quick PMC explanation and talked about raising money to fight cancer.

Later, the PMCers got a lesson in stretching from Early Show anchor Harry Smith who is also a cyclist. (Harry come ride in the PMC!)

“It was great because Harry Smith, during a break, came over to show us (the PMC crowd) some good back stretching exercises and he REALLY demonstrated by taking suit jacket off and getting down on the pavement!” said Susan Fier.

Harry Smith shows PMCers some streching moves!

More streching with Harry!

 Tomorrow, tune into Good Morning America between 8-8:30 a.m. and see our NY PMCers chat with Weather anchor Sam Champion about the PMC.

A Perfect Pedal Partner Match

Police Officer Derek Jones rides the PMC in honor of his daughter, who battled and survived cancer as an infant. With young Julia cancer free, Jones has been a valuable Pedal Partner, honoring another child each time he rides.

This year, Derek Jones met Connor Jones (no relation). The spunky 6-year-old is being treated for cancer at the Jimmy Fund Clinic and dreams of being a police officer.

Derek and Connor immediately hit it off.

Last week, Derek and the entire Georgetown Police Department treated Connor to an amazing day at the police station. Connor became an officer for the day. Read about it here and check out the video from WHDH.

Here are some photos from the day. It was truly was wonderful treat for Connor and for Derek.

Connor testing out the controls

Connor shows off his official police uniform

Connor with mom Lindsay and Derek and a brand new bike, a gift from the chief

A salute to officer Connor

30 Years in 30 Weeks — 2008

In honor of the 30th anniversary Pan-Massachusetts Challenge, the PMC blog will take you on a ride through history. Today we continue 30 years in 30 weeks with a look back at the PMC in 2008. We’ll coast through the event’s history, featuring a new year each week, as we lead up to the 30th annual ride on Aug. 1 and 2.

Check out past 30 Years in 30 weeks posts here. Send your PMC story to Stephanie@teakmedia.com

30 years in 30 weeks 

2008

The Pan-Massachusetts Challenge celebrated 2008 with riders who took the event across the nation and the globe.

Brothers Justin and Jamie Merolla kicked off their PMC by dipping their tires in the Pacific Ocean in San Francisco on route to Provincetown. And a group of dedicated PMCers and cyclists made their own journey to fight cancer that started with a dip in the Adriatic Sea, raising $70,000 in the first PMC Italy.

But the biggest story was back in Massachusetts, where the PMC kicked off 29 years with its largest group of riders and volunteers ever and a whopping $35 million donation to the Jimmy Fund.

Check Presentation

Over the years, PMC staff has heard from veterans about how the event lacked the intimacy of its earlier years, even as they were proud of the large sum of money they were able to raise for Dana-Farber as a larger team. Founder Billy Starr says this about the PMC growth:

“Believe me, I understand how these folks feel, yet it is critical to our mission that we grow… The PMC has evolved from a modest undertaking into a shining showcase for cancer research, advocacy and funding prowess.”

The PMC start

A big reason for growth over the years: PMC alumni. The PMC enjoys a 70 percent retention rate and the typical alumnus has been riding for seven years.

Rider loyalty and advocacy allowed the PMC to more than double its donation to the Jimmy fund from $15 million in 2002 to $35 million in 2008.

People come back to the PMC every year because they know it makes a difference and has created change in the world of cancer research and treatment.

“The PMC is a crusade and it shares a heritage with historic events that have changed our country’s policies and perceptions,” Starr told riders in 2008. “In America, when we want change, along with voting, we stand up and move. As PMCers, that is what we do. But in addition to our advocacy, the money we raise provides the very foundation for improving quality of life. The PMC is the wheels of progress turning,” Starr said in his address to PMCers during the 2008 opening ceremonies.

The 29^th ride was also personally significant for the PMC founder.

“I find symmetry in noting that this was our 29^th ride, which happens to also have been my age on the occasion of that first PMC back in 1980,” Starr said. “So, the PMC has been in my life for exactly half of it. In that inaugural ride, I managed to get all 36 riders lost. Thank you all for sticking with the PMC and our dream, while I learned to get this ride right.”

PMC 2008 Facts

5,241 riders

2,892 volunteers

$35 million raised

190 miles

30 Years in 30 Weeks — 2007

In honor of the 30th anniversary Pan-Massachusetts Challenge, the PMC blog will take you on a ride through history. Today we continue 30 years in 30 weeks with a look back at the PMC in 2007. We’ll coast through the event’s history, featuring a new year each week, as we lead up to the 30th annual ride on Aug. 1 and 2.

Check out past 30 Years in 30 weeks posts here. Send your PMC story to Stephanie@teakmedia.com

30 years in 30 weeks

2007

2007 marked an important Pan-Massachusetts Challenge milestone.

After years having unparalleled past-through rates of more than 90 cents of every rider-raised dollar going to The Jimmy Fund, in 2007, for the first time, the PMC gave 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar directly to the fight against cancer.

It was a monumental achievement within the athletic fundraising event industry.   The PMC continued that 100 percent pass through rate in 2008 and will again in 2009.

To do that, the PMC relied on 4,960 cyclists and 223,000 individuals who made donations to the cause – which totaled $33 million— as well as more than $2 million in corporate sponsorship from the Boston Red Sox Foundation, Overstock.com, MFS Investment Management, and others. In addition, 200 companies provided in-kind contributions of goods and services which aid to the PMC’s efficiency.

“Much of our success can be attributed to that which does not show up on balance sheets—human capital,” said PMC Founder Billy Starr. “The very act of committing to a physical endurance event brings into play all parts of the human equation, and it has been my observation that when a person becomes totally engaged the end result is usually far greater than first imagined.”

The PMC is known for helping people achieve their own personal bests. In 2007, PMC cyclist Denise DeSimone inspired all of us with her journey through cancer that nearly cost her her voice and her amazing recovery that culminated in her singing the National Anthem at Fenway Park.

DeSimone’s life with cancer began just after she struggled to finish riding in the 2005 Pan-Mass Challenge. “I was so out of breath, I thought I was dying,” said the Amesbury resident. “Turns out, I was.”

Days later, DeSimone learned that a lump in the throat, which had bothered her for months, was cancer. Tumors on her tongue and throat took her ability to eat, drink and speak normally. Despite the rapid weight loss, the painful treatments, and the inability to do the things she loved for many months

Doctors feared she wouldn’t sing again, which she’d done as a semi-professional for many of her 49 years.

But on that picture perfect July evening in 2007, DeSimone proved them all wrong as she wowed the crowd singing the National Anthem. “Singing at Fenway Park was absolutely one of the highlights of my life,” she said.

 

Denise Desimone

DeSimone’s cancer is in remission and she feels great. In 2007, she rode the 84-mile route from Wellesley to Bourne with nine members of Denise’s Dream Team. She has continued to ride each year since.

PMC 2007 Facts

4,960 riders

2,451 volunteers

$33 million raised

190 miles

215 Lifetime Achievement Award winners named for raising at least $100,000 for the PMC