This annual Impact Report is a collaboration between Pelotonia and The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) and honors the Pelotonia community’s passion for and belief in our mission of Ending Cancer this past year and beyond. Throughout its pages, you’ll discover highlights from Pelotonia’s community events, participant stories, innovative initiatives for increased impact, the vision of the OSUCCC – James, and many examples of research impact stories at the OSUCCC – James, made possible with the support of the Pelotonia community.

2025 was a record-breaking fundraising year for Pelotonia, thanks to how this community rallied together. Tens of thousands of participants, donors, partners, supporters, and researchers united, contributing their time and energy to accelerate innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James through Pelotonia.

We hope the content within this impact report celebrates everyone who has made Pelotonia possible to date, and will inspire even more to participate in 2026 as registration opens on March 4.

This is also a great resource for Pelotonia participants to use in their fundraising efforts, as every single dollar raised makes a difference with 100% directed to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James. Keep an eye on our Fundraising Resources page as we add more tools and templates for participants to use the 2025 Impact Report in 2026 fundraising!

Read highlights from the report below, and click to view or download the full 2025 Impact Report!

At The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), Eric A. Singer, MD, MA, MS, is leading efforts to transform care for patients facing kidney cancer. As director of the Division of Urologic Oncology at the OSUCCC – James, Dr. Singer and his team are working to develop treatments that are both more effective and easier for patients to tolerate. 

One of the division’s most promising studies is exploring “histotripsy,” a noninvasive technique that uses sound waves to destroy tumor tissue without surgery. The multicenter trial has already seen several successful procedures completed at the OSUCCC – James and could offer a less invasive alternative for some patients with kidney cancer. 

Another ongoing study, known as the Cyto-KIK trial, is testing a combination of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in people with metastatic kidney cancer. In this approach, patients receive medication before undergoing surgery to remove the primary tumor and resume systemic treatment afterward. Researchers believe that exposing patients to medicines before the tumor is removed may help the immune system better recognize and attack the disease after surgery. 

Dr. Singer’s group is also leading a new trial combining medications for patients at high risk of kidney cancer recurrence after surgery, an approach that builds on earlier single-drug studies and could establish a new standard of care.  

In addition, the OSUCCC – James played a key role in a National Cancer Institute-led study that showed strong responses in patients with aggressive papillary kidney cancers using a similar two-drug combination. Dr. Singer was a senior co-author of the study, which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. 

Beyond research, Dr. Singer is expanding the Division of Urologic Oncology, recruiting additional specialists and leading a fellowship program to train the next generation of experts. Most recently, he was named chair of the Board of Directors of the Kidney Cancer Association, which has been supporting patients and providers in the kidney cancer community since 1990. 

Dr. Singer received Pelotonia funds for his research startup at the OSUCCC – James and is now a three-year Rider. He rides for his patients and for progress, embodying the connection between Pelotonia-funded research and discoveries that change lives. 

Read the full story on Health & Discovery here. 

For many people with cancer, traveling to receive the specialized care they need can be difficult. After the COVID-19 pandemic made telehealth more common, researchers at the OSUCCC – James are reimagining what’s possible for cancer patients everywhere. 

Each year, nearly 64,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Most are diagnosed only after their disease has advanced, which makes them ineligible for surgical options that could cure it in earlier stages. In recent years, oncologists have discovered that some pancreatic cancer patients can benefit from targeted smart drugs, which are precision therapies designed to attack only the specific genetic mutations that fuel a cancer cell’s growth. 

Building on these advances in precision oncology is Sameek Roychowdhury, MD, PhD, a medical oncologist and researcher at the OSUCCC – James. Dr. Roychowdhury’s new clinical trial takes the next leap forward: combining the power of genomic-driven treatment with the accessibility of telehealth. By connecting patients remotely with cancer experts and cutting-edge clinical research, his team is breaking down the geographic and logistical barriers that often prevent people from receiving advanced cancer care. 

Dr. Roychowdhury believes that telehealth represents an operational innovation — a cost-effective, far-reaching model of care that can extend beyond the walls of major cancer centers. He hopes this clinical trial will serve as a prototype for others, paving the way for more equitable access to research participation and the study of rare cancers. 

A 15-year Pelotonia participant, High Roller and Peloton Captain of Team Buckeye – Sameek’s Geeks, Dr. Roychowdhury has raised more than $69,000 for Pelotonia. In 2025, he participated in the 100-mile route at Ride Weekend and the 25-mile route and Trail Run/Hike at Gravel Day. He is also a multiple-time recipient of Pelotonia-funded Idea Grants, and his long-standing dedication to cancer research earned him recognition as the 2025 Pelotonia-Funded Researcher of the Year awardee at the Night of Impact celebration. 

Listen to the full episode of The James Cancer-Free World Podcast on YouTube here.

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.

Dr. Christian Rolfo leverages multi-cultural background for innovative care

When Christian Rolfo, MD, PhD, MBA, joined The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) in August 2024, he brought decades of global experience and a vision to speed up the path from scientific discovery to patient care.  

As director of the Division of Medical Oncology, Dr. Rolfo oversees nearly 100 physicians and scientists who treat a wide range of cancers, including lung, breast, gastrointestinal, skin and sarcoma, and who conduct research aimed at improving outcomes for patients everywhere. 

Born in Córdoba, Argentina, Dr. Rolfo’s passion for service began early. His curiosity and compassion led him to pursue medicine, and his Italian roots drew him to Europe for further study and research. Over the years, he has worked in Spain, Belgium and the United States, becoming fluent in six languages and gaining recognition as an international leader in oncology. 

Dr. Rolfo, who also holds the Diane Nye and Michael Rayden Chair in Innovative Cancer Research, is known for pioneering work in liquid biopsy, which is a way to detect cancer through a simple blood test instead of a traditional tissue biopsy. By identifying tiny fragments of tumor DNA or circulating cancer cells, this approach offers a less invasive, faster and more precise way to diagnose and monitor cancer. His research has shaped international guidelines and expanded access to personalized treatments for patients with lung and thoracic cancers. 

Now at the OSUCCC – James, Dr. Rolfo continues to push the boundaries of precision medicine, leading early-phase clinical trials and helping connect patients to innovative therapies. He emphasizes that such breakthroughs are possible only because of support from donors, advocates and the Pelotonia community. In 2025, Dr. Rolfo contributed to this mission by actively raising funds for Pelotonia. Above all, he hopes his legacy will be one of turning science into hope by helping discoveries in the lab reach patients faster and by changing lives around the world. 

Read the full story on Health & Discovery here.

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.

W. Kimryn Rathmell, MD, PhD, the new CEO of Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) marked her inaugural Pelotonia Ride Weekend with both a personal milestone and a vivid introduction to the vibrant, purpose-driven community fueling cancer research.

At Opening Ceremony, she stood before tens of thousands, immersing herself in the energy that defines Pelotonia, and then joined the more than 2,700 participants riding the 24-mile route on Saturday. Her experience underscored the profound partnership between the community and the groundbreaking cancer research led by the OSUCCC – James. 

Dr. Rathmell spoke passionately about how critical Pelotonia’s support is for translating innovative science into real-world impact.

She emphasizes, “I can’t overstate how important the impact of Pelotonia’s support is on our cancer research. We do more innovative, more exciting and more powerful research because the community is behind us.”

These words reflect a core truth: while cutting-edge science is foundational to progress, it is the unwavering engagement, generosity and spirit of the Pelotonia community that helps fuel and accelerate breakthroughs at the OSUCCC – James. 

Having previously served as director of the National Cancer Institute, she found Ohio State distinctly and deeply aligned with her passion — a synergy of discovery, compassionate patient care and community connection. She highlighted how the OSUCCC – James is uniquely poised to lead cancer research, treatment and prevention, thanks to the combined talents of researchers, clinicians and an engaged community that rallies together around a common purpose. 

Dr. Rathmell described Pelotonia not simply as a fundraiser but as a movement with global reach. The people who join the ride — cancer survivors, families, scientists, caregivers, donors and volunteers — form a dynamic network whose shared commitment elevates the OSUCCC – James’ mission. This collective engagement shapes the research agenda itself, ensuring that it addresses real-world needs and fosters hope for all impacted by cancer. 

Dr. Rathmell rode alongside participants during Ride Weekend, experiencing first-hand what it means to connect with the people and the mission driving Pelotonia.

Reflecting after finishing her first ride, she says, “I am energized. This is a tremendous experience.” Her participation exemplified the unity and purpose that fuel the community.

“Choosing to ride in Pelotonia helps to see the power that there is in coming together around something as important as cancer.”

This shared journey between researchers, clinicians, patients and supporters is what propels the science and care forward. 

Beyond the event itself, Dr. Rathmell’s leadership vision hinges on deepening the connection between science and community. She believes that innovation thrives when informed by the stories and needs of those who face cancer. This approach not only shapes research priorities but also builds trust and hope in the broader community. Her goal is clear: to ensure research discoveries translate into accessible, effective care that improves outcomes for all. 

In her role, Dr. Rathmell also carries the responsibility of mentoring and building the next generation of cancer scientists and clinicians. She has spoken about the importance of guidance in navigating the complexities of medical and scientific careers and the value of nurturing diverse talent committed to the mission of reducing cancer’s toll. 

Her excitement about Ohio State’s cancer program is grounded in both its cutting-edge capabilities and its location at the cultural crossroads of rural, urban and diverse populations in Ohio. The OSUCCC – James is positioned to address disparities in cancer outcomes and develop prevention, detection and treatment that benefit broad communities. 

Dr. Rathmell envisions a future where cancer prevention is widespread, early detection is accessible and new treatments mitigate suffering. “Ultimately, it will be a world where people don’t fear cancer the way we do today,” she says.  

Dr. Rathmell’s first Ride Weekend embodied this spirit — standing shoulder to shoulder with riders and supporters, embracing the community and stepping into a leadership approach that blends scientific expertise with heartfelt commitment. Her arrival marks a new chapter for OSUCCC – James, one driven by innovation, collaboration and the unstoppable force of a community united in ending cancer. 

Katharine Collier, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Medical Oncology at The Ohio State University and member of the Translational Therapeutics Program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), is the second recipient of the annual Mason Fisher Grant, funded entirely by Pelotonia dollars. 

“I am grateful for the support of Pelotonia and the Mason Fisher Grant in my mission to improve personalized and effective treatment for patients with bladder cancer,” Dr. Collier said. 

Dr. Collier, who works with bladder and urinary tract cancers, will use the grant to study how patients feel about and are affected by a new, easy genetic test that doesn’t require surgery. This test will be given to up to 500 people who have a type of bladder or urinary tract cancer called urothelial carcinoma. The research aims to learn more about the genetics of this cancer, which is one of the most common cancers in men. Right now, genetic testing isn’t widely recommended for this cancer because we don’t have enough information about the harmful gene changes and how they affect patients. 

Her study will explore how simple genetic testing affects patients and families, regardless of cancer stage, age, or family history, and will specifically evaluate associations between genetic mutations and treatment responses. She hopes this project will build a larger cohort to link genetic variants to outcomes and inspire clinical trials for patients with Lynch syndrome or DNA repair mutations, potentially using genetic testing to guide treatment. 

Additionally, the project will assess patient and family views on the risks, benefits and psychosocial effects of genetic testing. 

This grant extends Dr. Collier’s translational research focused on predictive biomarkers and resistance mechanisms to develop personalized therapies for urothelial carcinoma.  

A seven-year Pelotonia Rider, Dr. Collier took part in the 30-mile Sunday route during Ride Weekend 2025 with Team Buckeye – Full Steam Ahead. This combination of grant support and her Pelotonia involvement reflects both her scientific promise and dedication to the cancer research community.

Researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) have found a connection between two genetic mutations in a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) — a finding that could lead to new ways to treat this aggressive blood cancer.  

Published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, the study — which involved mouse models of human AML as well as human AML patients — focused on mutations (abnormal changes) in two genes, TP53 and TET2, that cooperate to transform blood cells and play a key role in AML development. 

By examining groups of AML patients from the OSUCCC – James and MSK, the scientists saw that 10% of AML patients who have TP53 changes also have TET2 changes — an AML subtype that has very poor clinical outcomes.  

The researchers also found that both mice and humans with this subtype displayed high amounts of a molecule called CD155 on their cancer cells, and that using antibodies to block the CD155 molecule helped the immune system destroy the TP53/TET2 cells. This improved patient survival and pointed toward a possible new treatment strategy for patients with this AML subtype. 

Authors of the study include Pelotonia-funded researchers Rosa Lapalombella, PhD, co-leader of the Leukemia and Hematologic Malignancies (LHM) Program at the OSUCCC – James; Bradley Blaser, MD, PhD, a member of the LHM Program; and Omar Abdel-Wahab, MD, chair of the Molecular Pharmacology Program at MSK. The study’s first author was Pu Zhang, PhD, a former PhD student and Pelotonia Scholar in Hematology at Ohio State who is now a postdoctoral fellow at MSK. 

Read the full story on the OSUCCC – James news page here.

The Pelotonia community looks forward to welcoming Dr. Kim Rathmell as she experiences her first Ride Weekend as CEO of the OSUCCC – James! 

“Anything is possible.” That mantra drives Matthew Marquardt, a third-year medical student at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, dedicated cancer researcher and Pelotonia Scholar, four-time Pelotonia Rider, and professional Ironman triathlete. 

Matthew serves as peloton team captain of the BSR–Spin Doctors under the Team Buckeye super peloton and will ride the 100-mile route during Ride Weekend 2025. As a four-year Rider and High Roller, he has made a significant commitment to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James, raising nearly $20,000 during his years of Pelotonia participation. 

“I ride in Pelotonia because I want to be a part of creating a cancer-free world. This mission is deeply personal to me,” says Matthew, who honors loved ones affected by cancer by writing their initials on his bike — a symbolic reminder of why he rides. 

A 2021 graduate of Princeton University with a degree in chemistry (magna cum laude) and a minor in entrepreneurship, Matthew hopes to become a head and neck cancer surgeon. At the OSUCCC – James, he is involved in three projects that combine medical science, innovation and human performance. His first project, mentored by Carmen Quatman, MD, PhD, in the Department of Orthopaedics, explores the surgeon-athlete connection, examining how principles from sports science can improve surgical performance. His second project, in collaboration with Kyle VanKoevering, MD, in the Department of Otolaryngology and the Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing (M4) Lab, uses 3D printing to enhance surgical outcomes for head and neck cancer patients. 

“Matthew blends the science and art of medicine with engineering and technology — the same mindset he applies to training and racing,” Dr. VanKoevering says. 

His third project, with David E. Cohn, MD, a gynecologic oncologist who serves as chief operating officer and chief medical officer at the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, explores the use of continuous glucose monitoring during chemotherapy to identify metabolic changes.

“He’s one of the most committed and motivated individuals I’ve ever worked with,” Dr. Cohn says. 

Matthew’s passion for performance extends far beyond the lab. After discovering triathlon in 2021, he quickly rose through the ranks. He won the overall age-group title at the 2022 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona and turned professional in 2023. That year, he earned three podium finishes and the fastest swim split at the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice. In 2024, he continued to excel with three more podiums and a bike course record at IRONMAN Lake Placid — securing a fourth place finish in the IRONMAN Pro Series. In April 2025, he clocked a sub eight-hour performance at IRONMAN Texas, solidifying his top-30 position in the global PTO World Rankings. 

“Triathlon is too hard of a sport to do only by yourself — and so is battling cancer,” he says. “There is incredible power in tackling challenges with others and having a purpose beyond oneself that can positively impact lives.” 

As he trains, researches and races, Matthew’s path remains clear: pursue purpose, push limits and help end cancer — one mile, one study and one ride at a time. 

In connection to funds raised by the Pelotonia community, Glen Barber, PhD, FRS, a globally distinguished immunologist, was recruited to join the OSUCCC – James’ Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) as director of the Center for Innate Immunity and Inflammation. His groundbreaking work focuses on the body’s innate immune system, which is considered to be the first line of defense against diseases.  

A pivotal achievement of Dr. Barber’s team is the discovery of a signaling pathway controlled by a molecule called STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) that is activated by microbes such as viruses, bacteria and parasites. This finding has sparked efforts to design drugs that strengthen the body’s immune system by boosting the STING pathway, which is important for generating antitumor immunity. 

“Our goal is to design drugs that stimulate innate immunity and test them in new clinical trials,” Dr. Barber explains.  

Dr. Barber’s research also explores the development of vaccines that target viruses linked to cancers. Supported by the National Cancer Institute, these efforts strive to prevent virus-induced cancers through innovative immunological strategies.  

Beyond the lab, Dr. Barber is inspired by the community’s commitment to cancer research, exemplified by Pelotonia. He arrived at Ohio State just a day before Ride Weekend 2024, but he’d had his bicycle shipped from Florida to Columbus and joined the Pelotonia community on the 20-mile route the next day. 

He shares the OSUCCC – James’ vision of creating a cancer-free world. 

“I think it’s possible because there’s so much more to learn, and that means so much opportunity to design ways to combat malignancy,” he explains. “We’re still scratching the surface to a certain extent, but the more we learn through the investment of donors, grants and the cancer center itself, the more team science we can generate and the more trials we can offer. Never say never.” 

With a legacy of discovery and a vision for a cancer-free future, Dr. Barber continues to push the boundaries of immunology to develop transformative treatments.