Community Stories
Panfils pay it forward with research bequest
| June 20, 2025
Amanda Panfil, PhD, an assistant professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Ohio State University, and a member of the Leukemia and Hematologic Malignancies Program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), and her husband Joe have made a lasting commitment to cancer research by naming Pelotonia as a beneficiary in their estate plans. Their decision reflects a deeply personal connection: Amanda’s research on human viruses that cause cancer has been directly supported by Pelotonia’s unique model, which ensures 100 percent of participant-raised funds go to cancer research at the OSUCCC – James.
Since joining Ohio State in 2019, Amanda has been a Rider with Team Buckeye. Amanda has seen firsthand the impact of Pelotonia, not only in her own lab, but also in the careers of young scientists she mentors. Three of her trainees have received Pelotonia-funded research scholarships.
“Without Pelotonia, there are no researchers; there are no breakthroughs,” Amanda said.
For Amanda and Joe, Pelotonia is more than an annual event; it’s a mission and a community united to end cancer. By joining the Pelotonia Legacy Society, the Panfils are helping to secure the future of groundbreaking research, ensuring that progress continues for generations to come. Their philanthropy stands as a testament to the power of hope, science, and community action.
For more information on the Pelotonia Legacy Society, please visit our Planned Giving page.
