For the past 9 years, Pelotonia has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. What began as a way to honor my dad after his cancer diagnosis eventually grew into a deep commitment to riding, volunteering, and fundraising for life-saving cancer research.

This year, that commitment comes full circle.

In 2026, at age 37, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Suddenly, the research I had spent years supporting became personal in an entirely new way. The treatments, advancements, and hope made possible through cancer research are no longer abstract to me—they are actively shaping my own journey. I am part of a clinical research study which included an antibiotic mesh implant done during my first surgery. I also was the beneficiary of new and ground breaking nerve grafting and reconnection- something unique to Dr. Sara Myers at The James.

This year, I’ll continue my tradition of volunteering for bike rack setup during Ride Weekend and will still be riding, albeit at a shorter distance than the 100 miles I originally planned. I remain committed to raising $2,000 this year, which will bring my lifetime fundraising total to more than $23,000 for cancer research.

All the funds Pelotonia has raised directly supports research and innovative cancer treatments at The Ohio State University Cancer Center- James Hospital- the very same place I am receiving treatment.

I ride because I know firsthand that research changes lives.