Going the Distance: Mike Farina’s 300-Mile Bike Ride for Charity

This summer, BHAC Beacon Hill manager Mike Farina is embarking on a 300-mile cycling journey, not as part of a formal race or event, but as a personal mission. Inspired by two young boys, Cam and Gordie, who were both diagnosed with cancer, Mike and his team are using this ride to raise awareness and support for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and pediatric cancer research. We sat down with Mike to hear more about the motivation behind the miles and how others can join him in making a difference.

1. What inspired you to take on this 300-mile charity bike ride for Dana-Farber and pediatric cancer research?

Mike: The idea for the ride really started with Cam and Gordie, both are sons of close friends of mine and both were diagnosed with cancer. Watching their families navigate something so painful and unfair really hit me hard. I couldn’t stop thinking about what they were going through. I wanted to do something that could make a difference. So I decided to take on a 300-mile ride to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer research. It’s my way of honoring those boys and standing beside the families who face this daily.

2. Why did you choose Dana-Farber, and why pediatric cancer specifically?

Mike: Dana-Farber is at the forefront of cancer research and care, and its work in pediatric oncology is truly life-changing. When you hear the stories of kids like Cam and Gordie, you realize how critical this kind of research is. Pediatric cancer is underfunded compared to adult cancers, and I wanted to do something that helps close that gap and directly impacts kids who are in the fight of their lives.

3. What has your training looked like so far, and how are you preparing for the challenge?

Mike: Training has been tough but rewarding. I’ve been riding several times a week—shorter rides during the week, longer ones on the weekends, building up to the full 300 miles. It’s a big commitment, but when I think about what Cam, Gordie, and so many other kids go through in treatment, it puts the effort in perspective. I’m just riding a bike—they’re fighting for their lives. That’s all the motivation I need.

4. What do you hope people take away from this ride?

Mike: I hope people see that you don’t need a big race or a fundraising campaign behind you to take action. You can start something on your own, rally your community, and create real impact. This ride is my way of turning emotion into action, and if it inspires someone else to do the same, then it’s already a success.

5. How can people support your ride and the cause?

Mike: The process of support involves two steps. Your donations to Dana-Farber pediatric cancer research will directly fund research at the organization through Dana-Farber. We are hosting a fundraising event on June 18th which we invite all community members to attend. The event will have drinks and appetizers while allowing people to back an important cause through community bonding. You can discover all details and make a donation by visiting this link: https://profile.pmc.org/TC0467.

Mike’s 300-mile ride isn’t just about distance; it’s about heart. It’s a tribute to Cam, Gordie, and every child and family facing cancer. Join us in supporting Mike’s ride and the mission to give every kid a fighting chance.

Fundraiser Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/riding-300-miles-for-pediatric-cancer-research-tickets-1342747847959?aff=oddtdtcreator

Donate: https://profile.pmc.org/TC0467