“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
– Helen Keller
Group projects in high school, whether you loved or loathed them, taught us a lasting truth: Success depends on how we work together. When each person brings their best, believes in the outcome and commits fully, we create something greater than any of us could achieve alone.
I see this spirit of collaboration every day at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where our faculty, staff, learners and community partners unite to advance discovery, improve health and transform lives.
Nowhere is this collective energy and compassion more palpable than during Pelotonia.
Pelotonia is more than a bike ride. It is a year-round movement powered by a community passionate about ending cancer, and I am so proud to be part of it.
In less than two weeks, I will be back on my bike with Team Buckeye — Ohio State’s own super-peloton — and thousands of riders, volunteers, donors, and supporters rallying to advance life-saving research. Each pedal stroke, volunteer hour and donated dollar drives discoveries at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
Since 2009, Pelotonia has raised more than $309 million for cancer research at the OSUCCC – James. With the dollars directly funding this research, the impact is immediate and tangible. Lives are being changed. More effective therapies are being discovered. Hope is riding alongside us.
As a head and neck cancer surgeon-scientist, proud Team Buckeye rider and Pelotonia board member, I have seen firsthand how this community moves us closer to a cancer-free world. It is a testament to our collective impact. Pedal by pedal, mile by mile, we are making a difference. United in purpose and driven by possibility, we honor survivors, remember those we have lost, and ride for the future.
That future shines in Buckeyes like Matthew Marquardt, an Ohio State medical student, Ironman triathlete and Pelotonia researcher, whose mantra is “anything is possible.” Matthew is leading three innovative projects that merge clinical insight with technology, bringing fresh ideas to cancer research and patient care.
I hope to see you at Pelotonia this year! Whether you ride, donate or cheer from the finish line, please stop and say hello — I always cherish camaraderie with fellow riders and supporters during Ride Weekend. When we come together, there is no limit to the difference we can make.
Be part of the momentum: Register, donate or volunteer at pelotonia.org/register.
A single rider may not change the world. But thousands? Together, we already are.
Dean, College of Medicine
Leslie H. and Abigail S. Wexner Dean’s Chair in Medicine
Vice President for Health Sciences, Wexner Medical Center