Category: Community Stories
Inspiring participant and team stories from the Pelotonia community
Community Stories
2025 Volunteer Spotlight: Colleen O’Shea
| April 24, 2025
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels.
We are excited to highlight Colleen O’Shea, our Lead Photography Volunteer. This year marks Colleen’s 14th year participating in Pelotonia. After losing her 13-year-old cousin, Ryan, to Osteosarcoma in 2008, her family found a sense of community in Pelotonia when her brother and sister decided to ride.
Colleen’s favorite part of volunteering is interacting with Riders, Volunteers, and Spectators along the route. “Everyone in the Pelotonia community has a story about how cancer has impacted their life. As a photographer, I have the opportunity to capture their tears and triumphs throughout the weekend, and that means a lot, knowing the reason why they’re all there.”
One of Colleen’s most impactful Pelotonia memories happened in 2021, when she was photographing the chute at the New Albany finish line. A Rider and Survivor had just finished an incredible 100-mile ride, and Colleen expected him to lift his bike in celebration. However, he instead fell to his knees, overcome with emotion. Colleen continued photographing to capture the moment and found herself becoming emotional as well. “This is the type of moment that reminds you what Ride Weekend is all about,” Colleen said.
When asked for advice for people interested in volunteering with Pelotonia, Colleen said “Don’t be afraid to jump in. This community is full of so many amazing people with so many stories of how cancer has impacted their lives. Everyone has been affected by it in some way, so you’re not alone here. Talk to people learn their why. Not only can you have an impact on someone during Ride Weekend, this whole community will have an impact on you.”
Colleen’s story is a beautiful reminder that Pelotonia is an incredible community. Thank you, Colleen, for your continued participation in Pelotonia and for capturing our favorite moments!
Community Stories
2025: Volunteer Spotlight: Cathy & Patrick Hreachmack
| April 23, 2025
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels.
We’re honored to introduce Cathy and Patrick Hreachmack, dedicated volunteers who have been part of the Pelotonia community for 13 years. Cathy began volunteering while working as a Nurse Practitioner at The James in an effort to support her cancer patients. Patrick, a cancer Survivor, wanted to volunteer to support fundraising effors. Together, they’ve become an integral part of the Support and Gear (SAG) team, providing first aid and vital rider support.
For Cathy and Patrick, the best part of volunteering with Pelotonia is the camaraderie among fellow volunteers, especially the SAG team. One of their favorite memories is being recognized and warmly greeted year after year, a testament to the lasting connections they’ve built. They’re also committed to making sure every Rider has the opportunity to cross the finish line. One year, they even drove an injured rider through the finish line chute to the first aid tent so they could complete their ride.
When asked what advice they’d give to someone thinking about volunteering with Pelotonia, they shared: “Learn about all of the volunteer opportunities and choose something you’ll truly enjoy.”
Both Cathy and Patrick cherish quotes that showcase their strong commitment to volunteering. Cathy lives by a quote from Mother Theresa: “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”
Patrick lives by a quote from Robert G. Ingersoll: “We rise by lifting others.”
Cathy and Patrick’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the incredible community behind Pelotonia. Thank you, Cathy and Patrick, for your continued participation!
Community Stories
2025 Volunteer Spotlight: Julia Bistriceanu
| April 22, 2025
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels.
Next up, meet Julia Bistriceanu, an 11-year Volunteer. Julia was first inspired to give her time to Pelotonia while working in the nutrition department at the OSUCCC – James. Throughout her career journey, she continues to sign up for Pelotonia, even if her employer isn’t participating, which showcases her commitment to the cause.
Julia believes service in the community is a pillar of the American spirit. Her favorite part of volunteering with Pelotonia is the strong sense of community. She is continually moved by the stories of fellow Volunteers and finds deep inspiration in their shared commitment.
Over the years, Julia has played a key role as a Sustainability Volunteer during Ride Weekend. In this role, she helps set up compost, recycling, and landfill receptacles and signage — and manages waste stations to ensure participants and spectators properly dispose of items.
She’s also volunteered with the Support and Gear (SAG) team, which ensures no Rider is left behind. One of Julia’s most memorable experiences came four years ago, while serving on the SAG team. She followed and encouraged the last Rider on the 100-mile route, who was riding on a beach cruiser bike in memory of her friend, Mugsy Reynolds. That encounter sparked a lasting friendship, and the two are now in the process of planning a Pelotonia fundraising event in Florida, where the Rider lives.
When asked what advice she’d offer to someone considering volunteering with Pelotonia, Julia shared: “Volunteer opportunities are very diverse with Pelotonia. Everyone is super friendly, and if you’re joining alone, new connections are easily formed. It’s wonderful to see everyone at Pelotonia events and catch up on life’s adventures. The fulfillment you’ll experience after getting involved is beyond expectation.”
Julia lives by a quote from Ruth Bader Ginsburg: “Fight for things you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Julia’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the incredible community behind Pelotonia. Thank you, Julia, for your continued participation!
Community Stories
2025 Volunteer Spotlight: Megan Kruse
| April 21, 2025
In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels.
Kicking off the week, we’re highlighting Megan Kruse, a dedicated Volunteer of eight years with Pelotonia. She has also been a Rider for seven years.
Inspired by her father’s diagnosis when she was in high school, Megan decided to volunteer with Pelotonia as a way to give back. Thankfully, Megan’s father, Jack, is now cancer-free, and her family credits this positive outcome to teams of researchers, doctors, and nurses. Although Megan lives outside of Ohio, she makes an annual trip to participate as a Volunteer and Rider. In fact, Pelotonia has become a meaningful experience for Megan’s family. Both her parents volunteer and ride, as well as her boyfriend, Matt, who has volunteered for the past four years.
Megan’s favorite thing about volunteering for Pelotonia is reuniting with the same dedicated group of volunteers year after year, especially with her groups Lead Volunteer, Shirley Jordan. “We’ve built a strong team setting up bike racks together,” Megan said, praising the connections she’s built during her time volunteering on Bike Rack Setup and Bike Management, which is responsible for handling the setup and organization of bike racks at Opening Ceremony.
The powerful connections Megan has formed through Pelotonia extend outside of volunteering as well. While living in Pittsburgh, Megan was training alone for the 104-mile ride and expected to ride solo during Ride Weekend. However, she started chatting with a fellow Rider, Kristi, and the two bonded through the power of their inspiring stories. Before they knew it, Megan and Kristi crossed the finish line together, a new friendship formed along the way.
Another Pelotonia moment that has stuck with Megan was at the 2023 Opening Ceremony. Pelotonia Vice Chair Doug Ulman said, “Don’t you want to know what happens when you don’t give up?” Megan said the quote was so powerful, she keeps it on a Post-it note by her monitor, so she can always be reminded of the message.
When asked for advice for people interested in Volunteering in Pelotonia, Megan said, “You are valued and appreciated. Take the time to talk to Riders and fellow Volunteers. You’ll leave feeling connected, inspired and glad you were a part of it.”
Megan’s story is a beautiful reminder that Pelotonia is an incredible community. Thank you, Megan, for your continued participation in Pelotonia as a Volunteer and Rider!
Community Stories
2024 Awards: Researcher of the Year, Zobeida Cruz-Monserrate, PhD
| December 6, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
This award celebrates the incredible achievements of a Pelotonia-funded OSUCCC – James researcher. It highlights the importance of career research funding and underscores the transformative impact of the Pelotonia community’s support on the work of researchers and on the lives of cancer patients.
Pelotonia-Funded Researcher of the Year: Zobeida Cruz-Monserrate, PhD
Dr. Zobeida Cruz-Monserrate has made significant strides in advancing pancreatic cancer research with the support of Pelotonia funding. As Director of the Molecular and Cellular Biology Program and co-leader of the Molecular Carcinogenesis and Chemoprevention Program at the OSUCCC – James, her research focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the deadliest human malignancies.
Since joining Ohio State in 2015, Dr. Cruz-Monserrate’s laboratory has received more than $350,000 from Pelotonia, which has funded multiple research trainees and supported two Idea Grants that investigate the role of adipose tissue in pancreatic cancer progression. This support has been instrumental in generating preliminary data for her newest federally-funded research grant from the National Institiute of Health and National Cancer Institute (NIH/NCI R01 Grant), which explores metabolic interactions within the pancreatic cancer microenvironment.
Beyond her lab’s research, Dr. Cruz-Monserrate has mentored eight Pelotonia Scholars and remains an active Pelotonia participant as a 9-Year Rider and Peloton Captain for Team Buckeye-Guts in Gear personally raising more than $10,881. Dr. Cruz-Monserrate’s work, alongside the Pelotonia community’s support for cancer research like hers, is contributing to significant progress for pancreatic cancer patients, including increased survival rates. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients has increased from six percent in 2000 to nearly 13 percent in 2024.
The Pelotonia community is proud to celebrate the impact of Dr. Cruz-Monserrate’s research through this recognition!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
Community Stories
2024 Awards: Volunteer of the Year, Rob McKay
| December 5, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
This award recognizes a Volunteer whose unselfish and dedicated services have made a significant difference in the Pelotonia community, demonstrating a model of commitment to our mission.
Volunteer of the Year Award Winner: Rob McKay
Rob McKay has been an enthusiastic, reliable Volunteer for a decade. Rob has served as a Lead Volunteer for nine years and has become a familiar, welcoming face to countless participants and supporters throughout Ride Weekend. As the leader of Volunteer check-in at both Opening Ceremony and the McFerson Commons start, Rob likely interacts with more Volunteers than anyone else. He has also led Volunteer Check-In at Gravel Day for the past two years, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.
In addition, Rob is the go-to Volunteer for numerous projects that make a big impact. Throughout his years of service, Rob has supported many aspects of Pelotonia operations, including volunteering at the front desk, managing Volunteer check-in lists for various events, leading stewardship send and credential packing shifts at the office, attending every warehouse shift, and even supporting accounting tasks.
Rob’s Volunteers know how appreciated they are by the thoughtful thank you letters their Lead Volunteer sends after events, and he is often providing invaluable feedback to continually enhance the Pelotonia experience. Rob’s dedication, attention to detail, and positive spirit make him an exceptional Volunteer – and possibly most importantly, he always brings a smile to every task.
Congratulations to Rob on receiving the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
Community Stories
2024 Awards: Legacy Award Winner, Karl Koon
| December 4, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
The Pelotonia Legacy Award recognizes an individual who has participated as a Rider, Challenger, or Volunteer for 10+ years, and has exhibited unparalleled leadership and passion for the Pelotonia mission.
Pelotonia Legacy Award Winner: Karl Koon
Karl Koon has created a legacy within the Pelotonia community, dedicating 16 years as a Rider and High Roller, and personally raising over $110,000 for innovative cancer research. For the past 14 years, he has also served as the captain of Team Buckeye, Ohio State’s Super Peloton, which has raised $40 million to date in support of the fight against cancer.
This year Pelotonia’s mission became even more personal to Karl. He was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and began treatment at The James in February 2024. His chemotherapy is a pill taken twice daily called Acalabrutinib, which was a breakthrough therapy that was largely developed through research by OSUCCC – James scientists and physicians with Pelotonia funding support.
Karl’s leadership and generosity have only strengthened as a Survivor. Karl recently retired, but his legacy will live on and inspire future Team Buckeye participants. Karl is Living Proof of the impact of scientific dollars, made possible by the generous support of the Pelotonia community. So many are grateful for his unparalleled passion for the mission and the difference it continues to make.
Congratulations to Karl on receiving the 2024 Pelotonia Legacy Award!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
Community Stories
2024 Awards: Mary Hyatt Courage Award, Shirley Jordan
| December 3, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
The Mary Hyatt Award recognizes a cancer Survivor who embodies courage, perseverance, and grit, and has been instrumental in advancing the Pelotonia mission through grassroots activism, leadership, fundraising, and volunteerism.
Mary Hyatt Courage Award Winner: Shirley Jordan
Shirley Jordan is a 16-Year Lead Volunteer who has been a vital part of Pelotonia since the first year. Shirley’s dedication shines through her leadership of one of the longest Ride Weekend Volunteer shifts: Bike Management at McFerson Commons in Downtown Columbus from Friday morning through Sunday evening. Additionally, she has been a Gravel Day Lead Volunteer for the past two years.
Despite battling her own cancer diagnosis, enduring multiple recurrences, surgeries, and treatment plans, Shirley continues to show up for the Pelotonia community with an unwavering spirit. This year, just two weeks after having surgery to remove a tumor, Shirley once again led her team of Volunteers for the entire Ride Weekend.
Known for her positivity and generosity, Shirley’s name frequently appears in event surveys as someone who inspires others to return as a Volunteer year after year; everyone wants to be on her shifts! Shirley goes above and beyond in many ways, whether bringing sweet treats to the Pelotonia office and to her Volunteers or raffling off a handmade Pelotonia quilt to boost her individual fundraising efforts. Through it all, Shirley continually shows courage.
She faces her journey as a Survivor with incredible bravery and strength, and even as she’s fought a long battle as Living Proof, Shirley humbly considers herself “incredibly lucky.” The Pelotonia community is even luckier to benefit from her volunteerism and so much more!
Pelotonia is proud to recognize Shirley as the 2024 Mary Hyatt Courage Award Winner!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
Community Stories
2024 Awards: First-Year Rider Award, Kyle Wenker
| December 3, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
This award recognizes a new member of the Pelotonia community who brings newfound energy, excitement, and passion to recruitment, fundraising, and participation as a First-Year Rider. This year, we honor two recipients with this well-deserved recognition.
First-Year Rider Award Winner: Kyle Wenker
First-Year Rider, Kyle Wenker, dedicated his ride to his late wife, Megan, who passed away on Christmas Day 2023 from stage IV lung cancer. Kyle was awarded the First-Year Rider Award due to his strength, commitment, and perseverance.
Kyle’s participation in Pelotonia honors Megan’s legacy as an active, vibrant person who loved cycling. Some of his fondest memories of Megan are from the bike rides they shared together. Megan was a pediatrician known for her humility and selflessness. Megan’s spirit lives on through Kyle’s commitment to Pelotonia.
Joining the Simply Community Peloton, Kyle raised $15,765 this year for innovative cancer research.
Over two days, Kyle rode 190 miles alongside his brother-in-law. At the finish line, he was met by Megan’s family, his two young children, and a network of loved ones inspired by his passion.
Kyle described his ride as a “beautiful ode” to Megan that reflects why Pelotonia exists: to channel grief into hope and join a community honoring loved ones lost through investing in life-saving cancer research for others impacted by cancer.
Pelotonia is proud to recognize Kyle as a recipient of the 2024 First-Year Rider Award!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
Community Stories
2024 Awards: First-Year Rider Award, Sarah Hagan
| December 2, 2024
Each year, we honor a handful of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of accelerating innovative cancer research with the Pelotonia Awards. These members of the Pelotonia community are champions in the fight against cancer, embodying the relentless commitment to the mission of Ending Cancer that defines the grassroots movement. Their personal journeys are inspiring, and their extraordinary contributions deserve to celebrated.
The First-Year Rider award recognizes a new member of the Pelotonia community who brings newfound energy, excitement, and passion to recruitment, fundraising, and participation as a First-Year Rider. This year, we honor two recipients with this well-deserved recognition.
First-Year Rider Award Winner: Sarah Hagan
First-Year Rider, Sarah Hagan’s Pelotonia experience was deeply personal. She was awarded the First-Year Rider award due to her courage, resilience, and determination through her own cancer diagnosis.
Sarah was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in October 2023. Over the next 10 months, Sarah faced numerous medical challenges that tested her both physically and emotionally. In December 2023, she underwent lumpectomy surgery, followed by an egg retrieval procedure in January 2024 to preserve her fertility before starting chemotherapy from February to May.
During all of this, Sarah remained committed to riding in Pelotonia and to her team, Designer Brands/DSW Peloton. Throughout her six weeks of radiation in June and July, Sarah participated in training rides, embodying perseverance and resilience of Living Proof.
On August 2, the same day as Opening Ceremony, Sarah completed her final radiation session and was declared cancer-free! The very next day, she rode the 20-mile route and crossed the finish line alongside her teammates.
Sarah’s journey is a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication to supporting Pelotonia’s mission, turning her personal cancer fight into a symbol of hope and triumph that not only inspires her team members, but the whole Pelotonia community.
Congratulations to Sarah on receiving the 2024 First-Year Rider Award!
The 2024 Pelotonia Awards winners were announced and celebrated at Night of Impact on November 20th. If you missed the event, you can watch the program on YouTube here.
