COLUMBUS, Ohio — A big ride was dedicated to beating out cancer over the weekend, as 6,500 cyclists are rode in the 15th annual Pelotonia.
What You Need To Know
- 2023 marks the 15th anniversary of the Pelotonia
- Pelotonia is a massive bike ride that raises money to support cancer research
- The ride has raised over $272,000,000 in its history
But it was so much more than a massive bicycle ride. They all rode in the Pelotonia with one purpose: to support cancer research.
But for Anna Maria Bittoni, it’s also what she lives for.
“I’m so excited,” said Bittoni.
Bittoni rode the Pelotonia with her fiancé Colin Merz.
As a cancer dietitian at The James, she would ride every year for her patients.
But this year, hit different, after her cousin Anita passed away from cancer.
“She actually passed away in February,” said Bittoni. “She would come cheer us on at every single Peletonia. She would come to all the stops and, um, and cheer us on with her signs.”
So, Bittoni decided to ride, not only for cancer research and her patients but also in Anita’s memory.
“I know she’ll still be with us,” said Bittoni, “I know she’ll still be cheering us on this year just in a different way.”
While Bittoni misses her cousin, she’s more determined than ever to support cancer patients.
“They’re why we’re here, that’s there why we’re doing this, and we’re here to support them,” said Bittoni.
After the race, one more thing is left on the couple’s agenda: tying the knot.
Bittoni and Merz are getting married this month.
“We’re really excited,” said Bittoni. “Someone asked me today at work, like, how are you ready for the big day? And I thought they were talking about my wedding. They were actually talking about Pelotonia. So, it’s funny. There are two huge events that are really different, but both so exciting. I’m so excited.”
The Pelotonia community has raised over $272,000,000. All the money directly goes toward cancer research at Ohio State. They’ve raised $13 million so far this year.