Community Stories
A Global and
Lasting Commitment to Pelotonia’s
Mission
| May 25, 2026
For nearly two decades, Gisela Chang has been a dedicated member of the Pelotonia community. An 18-year participant with the Cardinal Health Peloton, she has supported the mission in many ways — as a Rider, Volunteer, and Challenger. Even after moving to Ireland eight years ago for a work assignment that eventually became a permanent home, Gisela continues to champion Pelotonia’s mission from across an ocean as a Challenger.
Her commitment is deeply personal. In 2004, Gisela’s father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive forms of the disease. After surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, he enrolled in a clinical trial at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). The trial extended his life for more than a year — an outcome that gave Gisela’s family more precious time and memories together.
Years later, when Gisela saw a billboard for Pelotonia, she knew she had found a meaningful way to give back to the community that had supported her family. That decision became even more significant when her cousin was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at just 28 years old. After receiving care at the OSUCCC – James, her cousin is now cancer-free.
“I chose to be a part of the Legacy Society to guarantee my support for Pelotonia and The James lives on. My family was greatly supported by the men and women of The James through research and staff, and I want to make sure other families feel the same support and comfort we did.”
After seeing two immediate family members benefit from both cancer care and support at the OSUCCC – James, Gisela chose to include Pelotonia in her estate plans so her giving wouldn’t end when she can no longer participate. Through her pledge to the Pelotonia Legacy Society, Gisela ensures a lasting impact, helping fund innovative research and giving other families the same hope and time that her father’s clinical trial once gave hers.
This article appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.
By including Pelotonia in your estate plans, you can leave a legacy that will continue to make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families for years to come.
