For Rutland residents Karen Sharpe and John Bubello, riding 177 miles in the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) wasn’t simply an athletic challenge – it was a way to honor the people they love. 

Unfortunately, on day one at mile 53, Bubello was involved in a serious bike accident where he suffered a concussion and facial lacerations. While Sharpe was unhurt, both riders left the PMC by ambulance so Bubello could be assessed and treated at a hospital. 

Despite the accident, Sharpe said that riding the PMC was one of the most moving experiences they have ever had. “We were part of a movement of so many driven to make life better for everyone,” said Sharpe. “There were people lining the streets shouting their support, ringing cowbells, holding signs, some even saying, ‘I’m alive because of you.’ It’s like nothing we’ve ever experienced.”

Sharpe said they rode in honor of loved ones who have faced cancer - including Matt, Marcia, and Mia - and in memory of family members and friends they have lost, while celebrating those whose lives have been changed by advances in cancer treatment.

Their commitment inspired the creation of Rock the Night, which will take place on Saturday, August 15, at the Rutland Sportsman’s Club. Organized by local volunteers, the event will feature four live bands (The Vig, Tuna’s Stones, DW & the Shakemakers, and Michael Luke Kelly), an opportunity drawing, and a community united against cancer. It was created to bring the Central Massachusetts community together in support of families affected by cancer while helping advance Dana-Farber’s lifesaving mission.

While Bubello continues to recover from the accident, Sharpe said they are committed to Rock the Night. “We are focusing on our community event as a positive, forward-looking activity,” said Sharpe.

Guests will enjoy food, an opportunity drawing featuring donations from local businesses, and an evening of music and community, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the PMC.

“Cancer has touched both of our families, our friends, and so many people in this community,” said Sharpe. “While I have the privilege of working at Dana-Farber every day, this ride and this fundraiser are deeply personal. We hope our neighbors will come out, enjoy a great night of music, and help us make a difference.”

Local businesses are invited to support the event by donating gift certificates, merchandise, services, experiences, themed baskets, or other items for the opportunity drawing. Businesses contributing to the event will be recognized during the evening.

Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Advance tickets are available by Venmo: @Karen-Sharpe-2 or at https://ticketstripe.com/RocktheNight. For sponsorship opportunities, drawing donations or more information, call Karen Sharpe at 978-407-7210 or John Bubello at 508-762-8957.

Since 1980, the Pan-Mass Challenge has raised more than $1 billion for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Remarkably, 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar goes directly to Dana-Farber to support innovative cancer research and exceptional patient care. W