Riders ready for this weekend’s Pelotonia
This weekend, thousands of Central Ohio riders will climb aboard their bicycles and pedal their hearts out for 2015 Pelotonia. The annual fundraiser, founded in 2008, has raised more than $80 million through 2014 to help fund research at the James Cancer Hospital and the Solove Institute. More than $12 million has already been raised through this year’s event. Thanks to support from event sponsors, all money raised from these rides goes directly to the research efforts. For participants like Evan Jones, the ride is personal.
Our world was turned upside down when we found out I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Appendix Cancer. After lots of doctor appointments and rounds of chemo, I was able to get into The James for surgery. In September 2013, the doctors removed my tumors, spleen, gallbladder, appendix, and part of my colon. After 30 days in the hospital, I was able to go home! My journey to regain my health, my spirit, and my life continued for the next year and a half and to this day I can proudly say that I am a cancer survivor. If it were not for the wonderful staff at The James, I would not be here with my amazing family. I have committed to ride 50 miles with my oldest daughter, Kara, in this year’s Pelotonia. This is my daughter’s second year riding and my first.
– Evan Jones, Pelotonia rider
Over 8,000 people have pledged to ride this weekend, embarking on routes ranging from 25 to 100 miles or more. The weekend kicks off with an opening ceremony open only to riders and guests tonight at Columbus Commons.
Good luck to all riders this weekend! (jj)
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