The Pan-Massachusetts Challenge raises money for life-saving cancer research and treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through its Jimmy Fund. The centerpiece of the fundraising effort is an annual bike-a-thon, held on Aug. 5 and 6 that crosses Massachusetts. Committed cyclists and volunteers, as well as corporate sponsors and individual contributors, are essential to the PMC meeting its goals.
Since its founding in 1980, the PMC has been successful in mobilizing increased support from all these constituencies. Its aim is to inspire even more sponsorship to raise as much money as possible to provide Dana-Farber’s doctors and researchers the resources they need to working to discover cures for all cancers.
The MBA is highlighting members participating in the annual bike ride this year, showing the activities of members who go above and beyond.
Team Quick
Edward P. Ryan, a Fitchburg attorney and former MBA president, rode with Team Quick in the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge. Ryan began to ride in the PMC 21 years ago for a family member afflicted with cancer. “This is one of the best events that I have ever participated in,” Ryan said. This year, Ryan rode in memory of Henry Quick, a fellow firm member who passed away this past year from stomach cancer, leaving behind three children.
Reilly & Finnegan PC
Husband and wife (and law partners from Chelmsford) Margaret Reilly and Kevin Finnegan are riding in their seventh PMC. “This year’s ride is particularly meaningful.” Reilly said. “We are riding in memory of Kevin’s brother, Ed Finnegan.” Ed, who practiced probate and family law in both Lowell and Chelmsford for more than 25 years, passed away in February of 2007 from thymus cancer. Reilly and Finnegan, who raised more than $16,000, rode in memory of him.
Team Zipcar
Shelly Chisholm will be a first-time participant in the ride across the state, riding with the other 11 members of Team Zipcar. The team hoped to raise around $75,000 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “So many people have been affected by cancer,” Chisholm said. “I was inspired to ride by my close friend, Kris, who is a breast cancer survivor.”