A grant honoring a late Ohio State medical student could one day help some blood cancer patients avoid second diagnoses. Francesca Cottini, MD, has earned the inaugural Mason Fisher Grant, which provides funding for research of genetic mutations that can lead to cancer. The grant can reach $50,000, and is funded by Pelotonia, an organization that, through its annual cycling events, has raised more than $280 million for The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). The grant is named for Mason Fisher, who passed away during the 2022 Pelotonia ride after experiencing a medical event. A student at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Fisher had planned to pursue a career as a cancer surgeon-scientist. Through the grant that bears his name, Fisher will inspire research that could break new ground in cancer care. As the first awardee, Cottini, a hematologist, will receive $50,000 to improve understanding of multiple myeloma, particularly the increased risk for patients of developing second hematologic malignancies. Click here to learn more about multiple myeloma, including risks, symptoms and treatment options at The Ohio State University. Cottini’s research could one day help doctors work with myeloma patients to reduce their risk of conditions like acute leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Fisher was an advocate for cancer research and an avid Pelotonia supporter who rode in the event three times. The grant will help medical students, as well as early-career doctors like Cottini, honor Fisher’s memory through innovative cancer research for years to come. Click here to learn more about Pelotonia-funded research at the OSUCCC – James.