CBS Boston’s WBZ-TV, sister-station myTV38 (WSBK-TV), and CBSBoston.com will join the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC), the largest single athletic fundraiser in the country, as its official media partner, starting in 2014. The WBZ news team is very familiar with the Pan Mass Challenge as staff members have participated in it. WBZ-TV News Anchor Lisa Hughes has ridden in the PMC three times, and explains why: “I ride because I want to be a part of something positive, life-affirming and meaningful. I ride to honor cancer survivors—including several of my training buddies—and lives that were cut short. And I ride because I love being able to show gratitude for my own health, family and friends by testing myself.” (Photo credit: Pan Mass Challenge)
WBZ-TV News Morning Anchor David Wade rides the PMC
Since the PMC’s founding in 1980 by executive director Billy Starr, the event has raised $414 million for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber. WBZ-TV News Anchor David Wade has been a part of the PMC twice so far. (Photo courtesy David Wade)
WBZ-TV AccuWeather Meteorologist Danielle Niles
Danielle is a 4-time PMC rider. “I rode in the PMC to remember those we’ve lost to the horrible disease and for those who are ‘living proof’ – especially my sister, Jackie.” (Photo courtesy of Danielle Niles)
IT Director Greg Raso Riding the PMC
The head of Television IT for WBZ-TV and MyTV38, Greg Raso, has ridden every year since 2003, about three years after his 3 ½ year old daughter Nicole was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). (Photo courtesy Greg Raso)
Greg Raso family & friend at the Bourne Finish Line
Nicole (pictured with her dad Greg, her brother Gregory, and family friend Brian) underwent a number of surgeries and treatments of chemotherapy from 2000 to 2003 until she was cancer-free. Nicole is now a healthy 16 year old junior in high school and has even volunteered at the PMC herself. (Photo courtesy Greg Raso)
Greg Raso and David Wade
“I was inspired by my co-worker Greg Raso -- who's little girl beat cancer,” David Wade said. “I've been blessed that my children have been healthy so far, but my heart breaks for the kids who have had to battle this awful disease.” (Photo courtesy Greg Raso)
WBZ-TV News Morning Anchor David Wade rides the PMC
There are six two-day routes that range from 153 to 190 miles and five one-day rides that range from 25 to 110 miles. (Photo courtesy David Wade)
Greg Raso and Lisa Hughes
The 190 mile ride donates 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar to the cause and in 2014 over 5,500 bikers will take part including Greg and Lisa. (Photo courtesy Greg Raso)
WBZ-TV and myTV38 Human Resources Manager Jill Teichmann rode the PMC
Jill (R) and her friend Laurie (L) pictured at the start in Sturbridge 2009. Jill explains: “I rode after my mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer. In a matter of months she had surgery and weeks of radiation. With nothing but a smile on her face the whole time, she never let it get the best of her. She found out a couple months later that she was cancer free. I decided the PMC was the best charity to get involved with and nothing better than to do it in her honor.” (Photo courtesy Jill Teichmann)
WBZ-TV News Anchor Lisa Hughes rides the PMC
As Lisa says: “The weekend of the ride is so much fun! I look forward to it every year!” Stay with us as at CBS Boston’s WBZ-TV, myTV38 (WSBK-TV), and CBSBoston.com as we venture into 2014! (Photo credit: Pan Mass Challenge)