Pedaling for a Purpose

Ten years ago, Dan Field was a vibrant young father. He was 38-years old, happily married with two young sons and a good job. Life was good and he was happy.

Then, in the course of one workday, his life changed.

"I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor on Dec. 10, 2002 shortly after experiencing a seizure at work," Field said.

Field had an operation in Dec. of 2002 to remove the tumor and a second operation in 2005 followed by radiation. Today, Field is healthy and enjoying the ability to give back.

"This will be my tenth year riding the Pan Mass Challenge," Field said. "Through cancer, I found cycling, and through the PMC, I am able to give back to the very doctors and nurses at the Jimmy Fund responsible for my health."

The Pan Mass Challenge is a bike-a-thon to raise money for cancer research. Riders can choose from a one or two day ride with varying mileage. The one day ride offers a choice of 11 different routes that riders can choose to travel. Mileage ranges from 25 to 110 miles and the two-day ride offers six routes ranging from 153 to 190 miles.

"I ride 112 miles from Sturbridge to Bourne," Field said.

Field is a member of a team called LEGS; Legs Ending Great Suffering.

"We participate in a pedal partner program, "Field said. "This means we ride for a child who is currently going through treatment. The kids we pedal for are generally local so it really makes the fundraising hit home. It is the team's mission to make the kids feel special, and help the family through this terrible time."

Having been on the receiving end, Field knows what it means to have others work to help find a cure.

"I cannot even begin to put into words what it means to be able to watch my children grow," Field said. "My son is getting his license soon, and I truly didn't believe I would get to see that day."

This year the ride will take place on August 4 and 5. In order to participate, Field needs to raise $3000; a challenge.  

"This ride is both a physical and a fundraising challenge," Field said.

Field has the physical part under control with regular training beginning in March, and an in home spin bike to get him through the winter, but he needs help with the fundraising.

Field also notes that the ride itself is amazing.

"When we ride through the various towns there are folks with bells, food, water and whistles cheering us on," Field said. "I mean, really, who are we? All we do is pedal, it's the people fighting the disease that are the heroes."

If you would like to help Dan reach his goal please mail a check to: Dan Field, 86 Old Town Rd., Hopkinton, MA 01748, visit the website and donate online or email danieljfield@gmail.com and ask how you can help. Please know, 100 percent of monies raised goes directly to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute for research and treatment.