In 2009, over one million Americans were diagnosed with cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. For Gary Fentin and Timothy Mulhern, partners at Shatz, Schwatz and Fentin, they know the disease all too well. Gary Fentin, who resides in Conway, MA has seen both friends and family member’s battle cancer. Most recently, his 23 year old niece was diagnosed with the disease. In 1986, Tim Mulhern of Longmeadow, MA lost his father to pancreatic cancer.
Fentin and Mulhern know while they may not be able to cure cancer, they are diligently working to support cancer research. On August 7th and 8th, Fentin and Mulhern, will once again challenge themselves by biking 192 miles in the 31st Annual Pan Massachusetts Challenge. They will join 5,000 other bikers on the journey from Sturbridge to Provincetown. Whether it is raining or 100 degrees out, Fentin and Mulhern will bike for two days to raise money in support of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
This year will be Mulhern’s 17th year riding in the Pan Mass Challenge and Fentin’s 8th year. Since they began riding, they have raised $150,000 collectively. Last year, riders and supporters raised $30 million, 100% of which went directly to support cancer research. The Pan Mass Challenge raises more money than any other charity.
“I ride because I can,” says Gary Fentin, Partner of Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. “I am riding for those who lost their parents, children, partners and friends. We are making a major difference in the lives of so many people and together we can help keep hope alive.”
“Taking part in this ride is surreal,” says Tim Mulhern, Partner of Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. “The route is lined practically the whole way with cancer survivors and their families. Over the sixteen years I have ridden, the event has gotten larger and raised millions of dollars. But people are still getting sick and dying of cancer, by doing this I hope to reverse the trend.”
In addition, there are thousands of volunteers who make the fundraiser happen. Jim Sheils, Partner of Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin will once again be volunteering at the event. Sheils, an East Longmeadow resident will be helping out at the “Family Finish” in Provincetown for his third year.