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Andrew McMahon: Hope Beyond Cancer's 'Wilderness'
31 Jul
Summary
- Musician Andrew McMahon headlines Pelotonia, sharing his cancer survivorship story.
- Adolescent and young adult cancers are rising, prompting new research initiatives.
- Pelotonia has raised $350 million since 2009 for cancer research.
Musician Andrew McMahon, known for his work with Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, will headline Pelotonia Ride Weekend's opening ceremony on July 31. He is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia at age 22.
Pelotonia, a Columbus-based nonprofit, is dedicated to funding cancer research and has raised $350 million since 2009. This year, the organization is spotlighting the rise in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancers, which are increasingly diagnosed with types typically seen in older individuals.
Dr. Kimryn Rathmell of Ohio State University's James Cancer Hospital notes that the causes for this rise are still under investigation, with theories pointing to increased exposure to microplastics and processed foods. New challenges in caring for AYA cancer patients, who are often building careers and families, are also being studied.
Through initiatives like the BRIDGE Program, Pelotonia aims to support more holistic and tailored cancer care for AYA age groups. McMahon, who also founded the Dear Jack Foundation, aims to inspire hope, demonstrating the impact of commitment to cancer research.
