Ohio State University medical student died suddenly Saturday while participating in an annual bikeathon for cancer research.
Mason Fisher, 27, was at the 100-mile mark into his 102-mile ride. He died due to complications in Columbus.
Fisher’s family informed the Columbus Dispatch of a “heart-related problem” at the end of the Pelotonia ride.
Pelotonia is an annual three-day ride that raises money for cancer research. The organization, which is affiliated with Ohio State’s cancer center, has raised more than $170 million over the past 10 years.
Fisher shared his passion for the race in a long Facebook post. Fisher’s third Pelotonia ride this year, but his first since 2014.
“I’m excited to ride 102 miles for such a great cause and to help raise money and bring awareness to Pelotonia,” Fisher wrote.
Fisher said, “Over the last few years, I have seen how cancer diagnosis has affected my family members and friends.” It makes it even more important to me to do my part.
Fisher also suffered from Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, a rare condition that increases the likelihood of developing cancer. His mother, who is also a survivor of cancer, is Fisher’s father.
Fisher’s Pelotonia fundraising page shows that he was also riding to remember Henry, his friend who died from colorectal cancer in 2021.
A flood of sorrow has erupted from the Ohio State community following the tragic death of the medical student.
It is with profound sorrow that we share that Mason Fisher passed away after experiencing a medical event during his Pelotonia ride on Saturday. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.https://t.co/GNQwp3vcey
— Pelotonia (@Pelotonia) August 7, 2022
Pelotonia posted on Twitter, “We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and close friends.”
Kristina Johnson, Ohio State University President, also released a statement.
Johnson stated that “the death of a student affects the Buckeye Family and I’m sure that we all send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
