I have been riding for the past couple of years, raising money for different cancer organizations, with the majority of my rides having been with Team in Training to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

I am often asked, why do I do this, why do I ride these distances and why do I spend a lot of my time training for and raising money if I do not have or anyone in my immediate family does not have cancer? Do I do it because I like to ride? Do I do it because I like to help others? Do I do it because I can? Do I do it because I am insane? The answer is yes to all of those questions with the exception of the insane (I am only mildly insane).

So, after dedicating two seasons to Team in Training and countless of hours on the road riding to prep for century rides, I am now doing the Tour de Pink, covering 220 miles in 3 days, from Hershey Park, PA to Clinton, NJ and finishing in NYC. My reasons for doing this ride:

• Recently, 3 people I know (co-workers) were diagnosed with breast cancer. I felt the urge to ride for yet another truly great cause to show my support for each of them.

• Second, during my other rides for various cancers, I have had the privilege to befriend many cancer survivors and have heard their stories and what they have had to go through, that to me, 100 miles or 220 miles is simply nothing compared to what they have endured. And I will be able to ride yet again side by side with some of my friends for this great cause.

• And third, I was a grandson to two grandmothers, one who had breast cancer. I am a son to a mother, a brother to a sister, and brother in law to two sisters’ in law, and most importantly, I am a father to two beautiful young princesses who I hope will never have to worry about breast cancer.

So, I am again setting out to help raise money so that we can finally, some day, find a cure for all cancer.

The Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women and breast cancer. YSC works with survivors, caregivers and the medical, research, advocacy and legislative communities to increase the quality and quantity of life for women diagnosed with breast cancer ages 40 and under. (www.youngsurvival.org)

Lastly, thanks to Hershey. Because of their generosity and sponsorship of this event, 100% of your contribution will go directly to the cause.