Hi Friends,

I can't believe that the one year anniversary of Mylène's passing is quickly approaching. For those that aren't aware, Mylène & I shared a common birthday – March 21st. We celebrated our last birthday together 4 days prior to her passing. Needless to say, many of those thoughts and feelings that were front and center last year at this time are resurfacing.

I'm forever grateful for the amazing relationship that Mylene & I had. She was so full of love, kindness, and compassion. She has been my role model as I begin moving forward in this next chapter of my life. It has not been easy.

One thing that I do know is that I want to help, even if just in a small way, find a cure for brain cancer. Throughout Mylène's 28 month battle, I met several other patients and caregivers. And in the months that followed I met additional patients and caregivers. Some of which I am now fortunate to call very close friends. 

Before diagnosis, I had heard of brain cancer, but didn't really understand. But now I know in painful detail just how devastating it can be.

I know many of you already make significant contributions to charities in our community…and I always feel awkward asking friends and family to contribute…but The Ride for Roswell is such good cause.

It's personal for me.

Cancer, unfortunately, touches so many of our lives. Heartbreaking and devastating to so many.

This will be the second year in which I ride for my wife...along with others that I know that have passed (sadly from brain cancer as well) as well as survivors including several close friends.

We are so fortunate to have a facility such as Roswell Park Cancer Institute so close to home. The donations to RPCI through the Ride, as well as other fund raising efforts, have enabled some significant advances in the treatment of cancer. Just last week, RPCI shared this update:

https://www.roswellpark.org/newsroom/202202-roswell-park-opens-phase-2b-randomized-clinical-trial-promising-brain-cancer

Cancer sucks. The Ride For Roswell raises funds to help patients fight and gives doctors more and more resources to try and defeat this frustrating disease.

This year, I am again riding with a team that has raised almost $250,000 (!!!) over the past six years. I’m again honored to be part of that team.

If you are able and wanting to contribute...please consider supporting me in The Ride For Roswell. Funds raised through The Ride support cutting-edge research and compassionate, innovative patient care programs at Roswell. Together, we can help find cancer cures and save lives.

With Love and Gratitude,

Doug