Help Us Make a Difference for Pediatric Oncology

Support The 2008 Pan-Mass Challenge

Every year, thousands of children’s lives are affected by cancer, and in turn, their parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents, schoolmates and friends are also touched.  When these children fall ill, they turn to physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, nutritionists and other dedicated professionals for hope and care.  The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is the home to many of these professionals.  Every year, thousands of cyclists ride across Massachusetts as part of the Pan-Mass Challenge to raise money to support the Jimmy Fund and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.  Some ride for their friends or loved ones with cancer.  Some ride as a statement of survival against their own disease. 

Having ridden in the 2006 and 2007 Pan-Mass Challenge on behalf of and in honor of all of my patients, it has been a privilege to be a part of their team.  The strength of these amazing young people, as well as that of their parents and families, in their fight against cancer, has been an inspiration to me, both personally and professionally, and I hope that it is for you as well. 

This year, I am unable to ride.  Amazingly, one of my pediatric brain tumor patients named Rebecca Hopkins, offered to ride in my place, and for my patients.  This incredible young woman - a track star through high school, and through the majority of her chemotherapy and radiation therapy - has taken this important cause on.  In doing so, she serves as an inspiration to me, and so many others.

My rides in 2006 and 2007 raised over $125,000.  I hope that Rebecca’s ride this August will continue to inspire generosity and selflessness, and that you will consider donating to this extremely important cause.

I’ve been updating the stories of my patients, so please spend some time exploring this site so that you can learn about these remarkable children and young adults, and please consider supporting this effort.  Please note that all of these families have generously offered to share their children’s stories on this site (click here for information).  We would be grateful if you would spread the word about this effort - please tell your friends, family, colleagues, and co-workers about this effort.  I truly believe that we can achieve this goal by enlisting the generous support of people from all walks of life by spreading word of this effort from one person to the next.  Help us make a statement in the fight against childhood cancer.  Please click here to make a donation today, and support Rebecca’s ride.