COLUMBUS, Ohio – The sarcoma program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) brings the community together in support of people and pets with a rare cancer during the 17th Annual Steps for Sarcoma walk Sunday, September 20. The event seeks to raise awareness of osteosarcoma, a cancer of the soft tissue and bone, and generate important research funding at the OSUCCC – James. In addition to the one-mile walk, this kid- and dog-friendly event will feature food trucks, face painters and kid zone activities. People can participate in the walk/run or donate directly to support research. About Steps for Sarcoma Since its inception in 2010 and through the generous support of participants, Steps for Sarcoma has raised $2.2 million for sarcoma research at the OSUCCC – James. Sarcomas are most prevalent in children, accounting for 20% of childhood cancers. These tumors also occur in dogs and represent about 15% of canine cancers. Sarcoma can be overlooked for research funding, limiting the treatment options available to patients. Past funds raised through the event allowed the OSUCCC – James to collaborate with Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, leading to the development of new technology called ocular coherence tomography (OCT). First used on animals, OCT utilizes special lighting to quickly differentiate between healthy and cancerous tissue, and it is now used on people with sarcoma to guide surgery and confirm clear margins. Recently, the OSUCCC – James was approved for research funding by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to study whether adding chemotherapy before standard treatment for certain sarcomas will reduce the risk of the cancer returning. Led by David Liebner, MD, a medical oncologist specializing in sarcoma at Ohio State, the total funding award is for $6 million over five years. Steps for Sarcoma funding has also allowed for expanded collaboration with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, helping to develop an Adolescent/Young Adult Program. The program provides support for survivors of pediatric sarcoma to transition to adult sarcoma care. Tickets range from $35 to $100. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit Steps for Sarcoma | OSUCCC – James. What: 17th Annual Steps for Sarcoma walk and event to benefit the sarcoma program at the OSUCCC – James When: Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026 8:30-10am – registration 9:30am – survivor photo 9:45am – main stage program and activities 10:15am – walk begins Where: The Lawn at CAS 2450 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus, OH 43202 *parking available onsite Who: Joel Mayerson, MD, orthopedic oncologist and director of the sarcoma program at the OSUCCC – James, will be available for interviews. Osteosarcoma survivor and professional wheelchair-athlete LaQuinta Hayes will also be available to share her survivor story. Media Contact: Mary Ellen Fiorino, MaryEllen.Fiorino@osumc.edu