How did you get involved with the MMRF?

In 2019, I joined Team Janssen Oncology’s MMRF Road to Victories Team and participated in the Vermont to Quebec endurance event.

What do you want people to know about multiple myeloma? 

Multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer, and there is no cure. Many of the current treatments are the direct result of recent research, successful clinical trials, and support from the MMRF.

Why is participating in the MMRF Road to Victories ride important to you?

Having the opportunity to increase awareness of Multiple Myeloma, raise money for research, and join Multiple Myeloma patients, caregivers, supporters, and friends on an epic endurance journey is heartwarming and rewarding on many levels.

What are you looking most forward to/excited about in regard to the ride?

The MMRF R2V team is family to me. I am looking forward to riding and catching up with everyone, and the excitement of riding the Columbia River Gorge is going to be challenging and exciting.

What does your training regimen for this event look like? 

Training is really gearing up (no pun intended)! Knowing we will be climbing approximately 11,000 feet over 5 days necessitates training and climbing hills. Currently, I ride hills on the weekend and do club rides on Tuesdays/Thursdays and weight training on Wednesdays/Fridays.

Describe any challenges you have needed to overcome to be able to participate in this event.

The fundraising is the biggest challenge—asking for donations when so many of my friends, family, and colleagues have donated in the past and have so many worthy causes to support.

Who/what inspires you? 

This year, I am riding for a Multiple Myeloma thriver/survivor, Paulette Nestrick. Paulette is a retired teacher who was diagnosed 7 years ago with high-risk disease. She has had a stem cell transplant and many different regimens that have worked for her. She is incredibly positive, resilient, and focused on leading her best life. Paulette is an inspiration for me.

Have you participated in previous MMRF events? If so, which/when?

The 2023 Columbia River Gorge will be my third MMRF endurance event after 2019 in Vermont and 2022 in Maine.

Anything additional to add?

I am grateful that Janssen Oncology sponsors this event such that 100% of the donations received go directly to research. I am honored and humbled to ride for Team Janssen Oncology on the MMRF R2V Team. I ride for my colleagues, family, friends, and supporters who have Multiple Myeloma and other cancers that we support through donations and fundraising so that we can achieve the goal of a cure!