Colleen Pema, DO, team physician with Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio, recently participated in Pelotonia, a three-day cycling event that raises funds for cancer research. 

Pelotonia is a community event determined to see an end to cancer. Since its founding, Pelotonia has raised more than $217 million for cancer research in central Ohio.  

“It was a great event to show our communities that our staff is actively involved in the community,” Pema said. “It’s a well-known event each year with multiple ride options going from New Albany to Newark and back, or farther.” 

In central Ohio, 100% of the event’s proceeds go to research at The Ohio State University. Most riders raise between $1,250 and $2,000, or more, for the organization as they ride routes ranging from 20 miles to 200 miles.   

“As hospice physicians, we see cancer devastating people’s lives. This is a fantastic, proactive way to get involved with our community and research hospitals,” Pema said. “My father passed of lung cancer, so it has personally touched my life as well.” 

Funds raised through Pelotonia’s three-day ride go toward innovative cancer research including enhanced treatments and therapies, educating the next generation of research talent, immune-oncology, and prevention and early diagnosis. 

“There are many wonderful opportunities to get involved,” Pema said. “Whether you ride, volunteer or give, you can make a difference in your community.”