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$415,518

Amount Raised

838

Gifts Received

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23 Projects

Colors of Courage ZUMBA & HIP HOP Event for Cancer Awareness

Colors of Courage ZUMBA & HIP HOP Event for Cancer Awareness

By Melissa Organ

Make a gift to the Colors of Courage ZUMBA & HIP HOP Charity Event for Cancer Awareness to support awareness of all cancers

Raleigh B: Jams for The James

Raleigh B: Jams for The James

By Raleigh Bradley

Request a Song. Make a Difference.

Make a gift in memory of Nan Elaine Grandstaff

$1,000 raised from 10 gifts for cancer research at The James

Support cancer care and research at The James

Support cancer care and research at The James <p>[[Amount Raised]] raised from [[Gifts Received]] gifts for cancer research at The James</p> Nan Elaine Grandstaff, 83, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, surrounded by love after a life filled with family, friendship, laughter, and countless wonderful memories. Nan was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, Mimi, aunt, cousin, and friend. She devoted much of her life to the people she loved most, always putting family and friends at the center of her world and finding happiness in simply being together. Born May 2, 1943, in Zanesville, Ohio, to James and Adra (Hill) Watson, Nan grew up as the only girl with two older brothers, Danny and Bill. Perhaps growing up with two brothers had something to do with the spirited, feisty personality that would remain one of her defining characteristics throughout her life. Nan graduated from Philo High School in 1961 and later attended secretarial school in Columbus. She went on to work as a secretary in the Education Department at Arps Hall at The Ohio State University. It was also in Columbus that Nan met Jerry Grandstaff at a party at Ohio State, beginning a love story that would span more than 60 years. Together, Nan and Jerry built a life in Columbus, raised their two daughters, Julie and Jill, and created a home filled with family, friends, activities, laughter, and, of course, their beloved dog, Sam. Nan embraced being involved in her daughters' lives. She was an active PTA mom, room parent, and the kind of mother who showed up. She loved her daughters fiercely, celebrated their accomplishments, worried about them no matter how old they became, and remained an important part of their lives as they grew up and created families of their own. She gave them traditions, memories, laughter, a love of family, and more than a little of her feisty spirit. Nan also built a wonderful circle of friendships throughout her life. She was part of the Book Chats at Northern Lights Library, Ladies Bridge, Couples Bridge, and The Stitch Witches which later became the Tuesday Lunch Group. She and Jerry even became so close with members of the staff at their favorite restaurant, Champps, that they were invited to some of their servers' weddings. To Nan, people she cared about had a way of becoming part of her extended family. Becoming a grandmother brought Nan a special kind of happiness. To her grandchildren, she was Mimi, and she was one of their biggest cheerleaders. She loved watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, hearing about their lives, and creating memories they will carry with them forever. They will remember family beach vacations, lunches together at Max & Erma's, her unmistakable feisty personality, her laughter, and simply having Mimi there. Nan had a way of making people feel welcomed and cared about. She will be remembered for her kind heart, generosity, sense of humor and spunkiness. She had a love of movies of most any genre. Nan was a voracious reader and loved books. There is a bookshelf in almost every room in their home. She loved sharing those interests with the people around her, passing along a love of stories that continues in her family. Nan had an eye for style, she took pride in taking care of her flowers in the backyard, always making them look the best. She was always dressed to the nines and presented herself very well. She also cared very deeply about keeping her home warm and cozy and inviting for all those who visited. Christmas was a big part of her life from collecting ornaments on her vacations for family, finding the perfect Hallmark Ornament for each grandchild, watching Christmas in July Hallmark movies, and her Christmas Eve gatherings. She even hosted holiday parties for many years for Jerry’s work family. Nan also enjoyed traveling and was fortunate to visit many places throughout her life. One trip was particularly special: she finally made it to Britain, a place she had always dreamed of visiting. She is survived by her loving husband of more than 60 years, Jerry; her daughters, Julie (Stephen) and Jill (Bao); her grandchildren, Kirsten, Austin (Audrey), Brock, Braxton, and Brooke; her brother, Bill (Jackie); her nieces Jeanne, LeeAnne, and Jamie and their families; her cousins Ellen (she and Nan were born 10 days apart and were like sisters) and her family; and Bobby and his family; along with all the Hutchesons and Hazens; and the many members of the Grandstaff clan who were part of her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Adra Watson; her beloved big brother, Danny (Sandra); her nephew, John; and the family's much-loved dog, Sam. Though our hearts are broken by Nan's passing, we are deeply grateful for the 83 years of life she lived, and for the memories, laughter, stories, traditions, and love she gave us along the way. Her place in our family cannot be filled, but neither can it be erased. She remains woven into the lives of her husband, daughters, grandchildren, family, and friends, and into all the stories we will continue to tell about her for years to come. Although they are Jerry’s caregivers, Elizabeth and Autumn hold a special place in Nan’s heart becoming more than friends to her. We want to thank all of them (including Deborah who came to visit her at the hospital) for the love, care and compassion they gave Nan.

Make a Gift in Memory of Paula Egbert

$2,675 raised from 8 gifts for lung cancer research at The James

Support lung cancer research at The James

Support lung cancer research at The James <p>[[Amount Raised]] raised from [[Gifts Received]] gifts for lung cancer research at The James</p> Paula Schneider Egbert, aged 75, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 6th at her home surrounded by family. She was born on August 30, 1950 in Columbus, Ohio to Frank and Ann (Feeney) Schneider. After a lifetime of exercise, healthy living, and an avoidance of smoking she was, like many similar folks, shocked to be diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. She learned and began educating all of her family and friends that lung cancer is not usually caused by smoking. Because of its association with smoking, and the unfortunate tendency for humans to victim-blame, lung cancer research is grossly underfunded. Paula always fought for those who needed a champion. It is this legacy we are honoring as we seek to raise funds so that one day folks, regardless of a past history of smoking or not, who receive a lung cancer diagnosis will also hear about the cure for it. Paula was diagnosed over three years ago and was told that she would live 12 to 18 months. Her daughter, Teresa, a veteran nurse at The James, inherited her mother’s fighting spirit. Teresa searched for and found information on a doctor who might be able to extend her mom’s quality and quantity of life. As a result of Teresa’s advocacy, Paula began receiving a number of novel treatments under the care of Dr. Carolyn Presley. By connecting her mom with Dr. Presley, Teresa gave us the most precious gift of all--more time with Paula. She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-four years, William M. Egbert who passed away on June 18th of 2023. They had an all-encompassing partnership working together as real estate agents, as parents, and as each other’s best friend. She is survived by her children Colin, David, Daniel, and Teresa; her grandchildren Sean, Elliott, Oliver, Rocky, Olana, and Mia; her siblings Julia, Tom, Mary, Frank, and Bob. As a deeply dedicated real estate agent, she served her clients and got to know them, their families, and their hopes and dreams for their homes and their lives. She often told stories about her favorite clients to her family. That mix of expertise and genuine care brought clients back for their next move, and led them to send their friends and family her way. The “Picky Paula” list, when followed, was guaranteed to lead to a speedy and strong home sale. “I don’t want things. I want to DO things.” was one of her oft-repeated mantras. As “Adventure Grandma”, she surprised strangers, but not her family, by being the only over 70 year old jumping with her grandkids at the trampoline park and taking a turn water skiing behind her brother’s power boat. She loved Broadway musicals and was an usher with CAPA for many years. In later years, she switched from guiding folks to their seats to sitting in one as a season ticket holder along with her daughter, Teresa. As a volunteer for the Welcome Team at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Columbus, she embodied the warmth, kindness, and acceptance of her church.

Brad’s Wish is Simple: a Cure for Glioblastoma

$73,927 raised from 114 gifts towards our goal of $30,000.

Support glioblastoma research

Support glioblastoma research <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts towards our goal of $30,000.</p> On January 12, 2025, my family and I faced a diagnosis that would change our lives forever. I suffered a seizure and my wife took me to the emergency room where doctors discovered a brain tumor. After several days, I was scheduled for a craniotomy, but my family along with some close friends pushed for a transfer to The James. At the James, the doctors confirmed I had a glioblastoma and determined that the original surgery plan could have led to serious complications. Dr. Elder performed my craniotomy on January 21, and the surgery was a success with minimal side effects. Thanks to incredible support from family, friends, and my medical team, I've continued treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. Every MRI since has shown no signs of tumor progression or recurrence. I remain deeply grateful to Dr. Elder, Dr. Hamid Mohtashami, APRN-CNP Sarah Pollard, and everyone at The James for the care that has given me the best possible outcome. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of brain cancer and has an extremely high rate of recurrence. The average survival after diagnosis is approximately 15-18 months. There is currently no cure and the microscopic cancer cells that surround the brain tissue almost always have recurrence at some point. My goal of this fundraiser is to bring awareness to the disease and to raise as much money as possible for research and clinical trials. At The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), a multidisciplinary team of researchers are dedicated to developing and conducting leading-edge research that advances innovative breakthroughs and treatments for patients with central nervous system (CNS) malignancies. These specialists, sub-specialists and super sub-specialists are leading research in high-tech, state-of-the-art laboratories not available anywhere else in central Ohio (and one of only a handful in the country), transforming the way CNS malignancies are detected, treated and managed. Neuro-oncology physician researchers work closely with translational researchers and basic scientists who specialize in CNS malignancies to rapidly apply research results to patient care. The mission: to translate research findings quickly and effectively into treatments that will improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with CNS malignancies. Not limited in scope, these physician-researchers have extensive experience investigating, understanding and treating primary brain tumors (those that begin in the brain), secondary brain tumors (those that spread from another part of the body to the brain) and neurological complications resulting from other cancers. The OSUCCC – James supports a number of Phase I, II, and III clinical trials in Neuro-Oncology through the OSU Clinical Trials Office. Investigational treatment types currently under study for adult WHO Grade 4 Glioblastoma include dendritic cell immunotherapy (DOC1021), sonodynamic therapy (5-ALA & LIDU), SINE compounds (Selinexor), and multiple intratumoral therapies. These include dual-payload gene therapy (TGX-007) via intracranial cannulas, rhenium-186 nanoliposome infusion via intracranial cannulas, radium-224 alpha-emitting seeds implanted directly into enhancing disease, and anti-GARP CAR-T cell therapy (PIIO-1) delivered via Ommaya reservoir, all of which involve close collaboration with The James Neurosurgery team. Our center also supports trials for other types of glioma, including Triapine/Radiation for all grades of recurrent glioma and vorasidenib/temozolomide for Grade 3 newly diagnosed Astrocytoma. Investigational treatments for leptomeningeal disease under study include proton craniospinal radiotherapy and intrathecal rhenium-186 nanoliposome infusions. Your support will help the researchers at the OSUCCC – James continue this integral neuro-oncology research.

Shake Parkinson's Now

$0 raised toward our $6,000 goal!

Support the Myser Family Parkinson's Disease Research Fund today!

Make a gift in memory of Suzanne M. Jacobs

$56,195 raised from 26 gifts. Contributions to the Suzanne M. Jacobs Memorial Fund will support EPICENTER at Ohio State.

Make a Gift in Memory of D. Keith Watson DO

$3,850 raised from 11 gifts

Contribute to Dr. Watson's memorial fund in support of leukemia research

Contribute to Dr. Watson's memorial fund in support of leukemia research <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> D. Keith Watson DO spent a lifetime dedicated to medical education and advancing access to medical care in underserved populations. A single doctor arriving in a small town made his own life possible by diagnosing and treating his mother’s inability to conceive. This shaped his view of the world, as he saw firsthand how the presence of medical care can affect a whole community. Throughout his career as a cancer surgeon, medical educator and nationally-celebrated leader in the field of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Watson continued championing access to medical education and research, even as he transitioned from provider to patient. Dr. Watson fought a 19-year battle with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), trusting the expertise of Dr. Jennifer Woyach and her team at Ohio State to guide him through cutting edge treatments. A true cancer surgeon to the very end, he never waivered in his desire to try one more clinical trial. He understood deeply that each new clinical trial brought possibility, not only for his own health but for the countless others who could benefit from the continued work of this research. The family is thankful to Dr. Woyach and the CLL team at the James Cancer Center for their care and expertise, giving us the gift of time together. It is our hope that gifts given in Dr. Watson’s memory will continue advancing the research and care that will help so many others. All gifts to this fund support the research and program support on the treatment of blood cancers, including lab support, novel therapeutics, molecular pathogenesis, etc. leading to rapid initial pre-clinical testing of new therapies <a href="https://buckeyefunder.osu.edu/project/50022/donate">Gifts can be made online through this page</a> or checks can be made payable to The Ohio State University and sent to this address: The Ohio State University Foundation, P.O. Box 736096, Chicago, IL 60673-6096. Please write Buckeye Funder Dr. D. Keith Watson fund 310260 in the memo field.

Support the Just Us Scholarship Fund

$1,475 raised for the Just Us Legacy Group Scholarship at the Ohio State College of Pharmacy

Honor the memory of Uche Ezirim with a gift to support future pharmacy students

Make a gift in memory of Jon M. Daup

$2,425 raised from 12 gifts

Contribute to John's memorial fund in support of cancer research

Make a Gift in Memory of Abraham Varghese

Striving for a cancer-free world, one step at a time…..

Celebrating the life of Abraham Varghese with a memorial gift to fund cancer research

Make a Gift in Memory of Julia Holland

Please give to Julia’s scholarship fund to honor her memory.

Celebrating the life of Julia Holland (BA ’23) with a Memorial Scholarship Fund for law students at The Ohio State University.

Make a Gift in Memory of Dr. Jeffrey Myers

$1,300 raised from 8 gifts

In loving memory of Dr. Jeffrey A. Myers who was a faithful, passionate, follower of Jesus, great husband, father, son, brother, papa and friend.

In loving memory of Dr. Jeffrey A. Myers who was a faithful, passionate, follower of Jesus, great husband, father, son, brother, papa and friend. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> Age 65 years, 3 months, 16 days, passed peacefully at The James Cancer Hospital on August 4, 2024. Born April 19, 1959 in Urbana, Ohio to Jerry P. Myers and Nancy J. (Miller) Myers. Jeff was a faithful follower of Jesus. He was a 6th generation Ohio native and a long-time resident of Groveport, Ohio, also an Optometrist who owned and operated Winchester Vision Care, in Canal Winchester for 40 years. He was a proud BUCKEYE fan and a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Doctorate in Optometry and a Bachelors in Physiological Optics. He also attended Otterbein University and received a Bachelors in Chemistry and was a graduate of Groveport-Madison High School. He was a Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry; Professor of Clinical Practice at The Ohio State University College of Optometry; served on the American Academy of Optometry; Epsilon Psi Epsilon Alumni Association, as Vice-Chairman; President of the Ohio Optometric Association; President of the Ohio Optometric Foundation; Founder and Sponsor of the Jeffrey and Joyce Myers Lecture Series at The Ohio State University College of Optometry; OSU Capital Campaign Committee Chair; recipient of the OSU Mershon Award for exceptional leadership and service to The Ohio State University; Neil J. Bailey Optometry Medal for Development; Editor, the “BuckEYE” Optometry Alumni Magazine; Advisory Board Member of The Laser Center-Columbus; appointed by Ohio Governor DeWine to the State Vision Professionals Board; life-long member of Boy Scouts of America (Simon Kenton Council) serving in several leadership roles and recipient of the Eagle Scout Award and the prestigious Honor Medal with Crossed Palms Award; served as President of Groveport Lions Club; member of DeMolay and President of the SAR (Sons of the American Revolution) Benjamin Franklin Chapter. He loved the mission field and served on many mission trips to Liberia, Africa where he helped provide over 1200 scholarships for K-12 students while also providing training and resources for vision care. Jeff produced over 80 video devotionals as part of the “Journey with Jesus and Jeff” devotional series. He was an active member of the Reynoldsburg Emmaus Community, serving on its Board of Directors, including several live-in teams and as weekend Lay Director; and served in various Ministry Leadership roles and Advisory Councils. Above all, Jeff was a faithful, passionate, follower of Jesus, sweet wonderful husband, father, papa, son, brother and friend. Jeff was also a beloved teacher, mentor, and humble servant leader who helped disciple and lead many people into a personal relationship with Jesus. He was very passionate about genealogy and enjoyed tracing his family roots. Survived by his loving wife of (26) years Anita Joyce (Maynard) Myers, mother, Nancy (Miller) Myers, sister, Deborah Myers, son, James (Kelsey) Myers, daughter, Jennifer Myers, step-daughter, Amanda (Scott) Shoup, 5 grandchildren, Isla, Sladen and Margeaux Shoup, Dorian Myers, Nancy Myers, many nieces and nephews, and a host of other family, friends, and loved ones. Preceded in death by father, Jerry Myers. Calling hours, 4 to 8 pm, Friday, August 9th, Myers-Woodyard Funeral Home, 587 Main St., Groveport, Ohio. Visitation 10 am, prior to the 11 am funeral service, Saturday, August 10th, at Reynoldsburg Community Church, 1636 Graham Rd., Reynoldsburg, Ohio, interment immediately following at Union Grove Cemetery, Canal Winchester, Ohio. <a href="https://buckeyefunder.osu.edu/project/43071/donate">Gifts can be made online</a> through this page or checks can be made payable to The Ohio State University and sent to this address: The Ohio State University Foundation, P.O. Box 736096, Chicago, IL 60673-6096. Please write Buckeye Funder Dr. Jeffrey A. Myers fund 312823 in the memo field.

In Loving Memory of Michelle Zeisler Randall

$1,450 raised from 18 gifts

Make a gift to support lung cancer research in memory of Michelle Zeisler Randall.

Make a Gift in Memory of Andy Frank

$7,580 raised from 27 gifts to honor Andy Frank's impact on Block O and The Ohio State University.

Join us in honoring Andy Frank's legacy and impact on Block O and The Ohio State University.

Make a Gift in Memory of Cherlynn R. Webb

Make a gift in memory of Cherlynn R. Webb to support endometrial cancer research at The James.

Make a gift in memory of Cherlynn R. Webb to support endometrial cancer research at The James. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised</p> Cherlynn R. Webb received her “Servant Wings” on Tuesday evening, August 3, 2021 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio (Toledo). She was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in October of 2020 and passed away suddenly from therapeutic complications. Through Cherlynn's experience battling endometrial cancer, her and her three guys, Oscar (Husband), Weston (Son) and Brenton (Son), became strong advocates for women's health and specifically endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer is impacting women at a rapid pace. Specifically, Black women are disproportionately impacted by endometrial cancer at an even higher rate than other demographics. Researchers have discovered that mortality rates for aggressive endometrial cancer were more than 1.5 times higher among Black women compared with white women. The exact reasons for this disparity continue to be researched. It is because of these reasons that we have elected to start the Cherlynn R. Webb Fund for endometrial cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute. Cherlynn was a true Ohioan. She loved The Ohio State University football and basketball teams. Even though she lived in Toledo, she always enjoyed visiting Columbus. Cherlynn attended many football games in 'The Shoe' and basketball games in 'The Schott'. The Webb family has contributed and raised $15,698.86 thus far. The James' Endometrial Cancer team cannot start using the funds for research until the Cherlynn R. Webb fund reaches $22,000 per the rules state. The goal is to get a little over $6000 more so the funds become available for use. However, even after this goal is surpassed, the fund will stay open. So throughout the years ahead, when Cherlynn is on your mind, when you have a fond memory of your times with her, or even think about women's health in general, please consider donating to the Cherlynn R. Webb fund. The Webb family believes in the people at The James to help push endometrial cancer research in the right direction to help save the lives of all women who encounter this disease. Thank you.

Charlie's Angels

$8,200 raised from 39 gifts

Make a gift to support the Charlie's angels student fund.

Make a gift to support the Charlie's angels student fund. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> Charlie was a 15-year-old Havanese whose family started the Charlie's Angels fund to support the efforts of the dedicated students and doctors at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. These special people use their talents to help animals like Charlie live longer and healthier lives, and save them from all forms of diseases and challenges. They are angels to the animals and families they work with. Charlie's family established this fund to give back and help them become better veterinarians. Charlie’s Angels was established to provide financial support to students so they can obtain practical experiences outside the classroom. The fund covers their expenses so they can work with other veterinarians, animal caregivers, zoos and shelters. This experience gives them the understanding of what new veterinarians may face in their future endeavors, while connecting with alumni and friends of the college. Please see the updates page to see some of the great work students have been able to do with this fund. There has been a growing number of students taking part in these experiences which in turn, will allow them to become better veterinarians. Due to this increased interest in students, the need to grow this fund has become even more important. With your help, we can provide more students with the opportunity to enhance their educational experience. <strong>Congratulations to Fall 2023 Charlie's Angels Travel Scholarship Recipients</strong><ul><li>Rachel Tustin<ul><li>Experience: Shadow Experience at Planned Pethood Plus</li></ul></li><li>Alycia Kent:<ul><li>Experience: Large Animal Medicine</li><li>Location: Nevada</li></ul></li><li>Tyler Lindskoog<ul><li>Experience: CDC Epidemiology Elective Program</li><li>Location: Dengue Branch, Puerto Rico</li></ul></li><li>Emily Fletcher<ul><li>Experience: CDC Epidemiology Elective Program</li><li>Location: Arkansas Department of Health</li></ul></li><li>Emily Olszewski<ul><li>Experience: Fort Worth and Point Defiance Zoos</li></ul></li><li>Kelsie Saia<ul><li>Experience: Large Animal Medicine</li><li>Location: Nevada</li></ul></li><li>Miranda Sharpe<ul><li>Experience: Woodland Park Zoo externship</li></ul></li></ul> The awards are for travel within the USA to expand students' clinical education beyond what they could get at OSU. Applications and awards are managed through the Global Engagement Program. <a href="https://buckeyefunder.osu.edu/project/37578/donate"><strong>Make your gift today to support the Charlie’s Angels Student Fund.</strong></a> To make your gift online, click the '<a href="https://buckeyefunder.osu.edu/project/37578/donate">Give Now</a>' button above. Additionally, you can contribute to the fund via check, credit card, IRA, appreciated stock and estate gift. Make sure to share this page with your family and friends through emails and social channels! For questions on making your gift, please contact the college at 614-247-8157 or <a href="mailto:cvmadvancement@osu.edu">cvmadvancement@osu.edu</a>.

Make a Gift in Memory of Clark Swanson

Continue to support Clark's passion for astrophysics through research, education and outreach initiatives.

$2,670 raised from 18 gifts

Celebrate the legacy of OrangeBoy, Inc. founder and astrophysics enthusiast by donating to Ohio State's Department of Astronomy Discretionary Fund.

Minnie Memorial

$850 raised from 9 gifts

Make a gift in memory of Minnie to help other animals at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center obtain the care they need.

Make a gift in memory of Minnie to help other animals at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center obtain the care they need. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> <em>To know Minnie was to know love. </em><em>It was impossible to look at Minnie and not feel like you have met one of the most beautiful souls to ever walk the earth. </em> This fund is set up in memory of Minnie to help assist other cats at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center obtain the care they need when this cannot be afforded financially. Finances are not a reason someone should have to go without treatment. Minnie was a true earth angel and now my heavenly angel. Born a feral farm cat and learning how to survive thanks to her mom. One day when she was around 6 months old, she decided she wanted something more out of life. Avoiding all human contact, one cold winter day she walked right up to me, looked up and wanted to be held. A friendship that would never be broken began that day. Every day was a good day for Minnie and she lived life to the fullest. She’d go anywhere with me including work and church. There weren't too many places I went to that didn’t know who Minnie was. She loved every moment she’d get to know someone new. She gave the best Eskimo kisses and someone being so small took up the biggest room in my heart. Despite having an immense amount of love for my precious girl, the universe had other plans. She was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease at just 6 years old. Minnie was light and love and sunshine and everything that is good about this world. Thanks to treatment at Ohio State, I was able to spend two more years with my best friend. When I say best friend, I mean it and Minnie was everyone’s best friend. There wasn’t a person she didn’t like. She brought so much love into this universe, that it only seems right that good continues to come from her even after her passing. Thankfully Minnie had the perfect personality to work extensively with multiple doctors and face whatever treatment came her way with strength and a fearless attitude. I knew giving up on her wasn’t an option. She touched the lives of every tech, doctor and staff member she met. Somehow having her presence in the room made the worst situations always seem better. She was so brave for every battle she faced. As a pet parent, any of us could be faced with having to make decisions that will impact our pets’ lives. If your furry family member is ever sick, the last thing you would ever want to do is say no to treatment due to finances. No pet deserves to have the quality of their life be diminished or lose their life because care is simply not affordable. No matter how long we get to love them, it’s never long enough; therefore, let’s not allow anything to reduce a time that is already short enough. This fund will help so nobody ever has to say no. No matter what size of gift you are able to give, it will make a difference, it will save a life, it will help keep someone’s best friend here a little longer. Let’s keep the rainbow bridge at bay by saying I’ve got your back; I will help you through this. Minnie helped so many, now it’s our turn to keep her legend going. She may have been Minnie, but she was mighty. It’s time to live without bounds just as she did. You may be saying to yourself there’s so many pets out there who need help, that this won’t make a difference, but I tell you with absolute certainly, that the pet who gets to walk out the door with its owner and not be carried out in a small box, that’s where the difference will be. Even if it’s it’s just one pet saved, that’s one who didn’t die too young.

Support the Willcut Family Fund

$43,000 raised from 99 gifts

Please make your gift today to support the Willcut Family Fund!

Make a Gift in Honor of Dan Leite

$106,825 raised from 47 gifts

Make a gift today to the Rita’s Corner of the World Fund to support the heart transplant program at Ohio State.

Make a gift today to the Rita’s Corner of the World Fund to support the heart transplant program at Ohio State. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> On Christmas morning of 2015, I opened my eyes to begin a second chance at life after receiving a heart transplant at The Ross Heart Hospital. Through the incredible kindness and courage of an unknown donor and the skill and dedicated care by so many at The Ross, I had another opportunity to be a husband, brother, friend, athlete and so much more for the people I truly love in my life. Among the most important people there that special morning was my incredible wife Emily, my amazing brother Joe and wonderful sister-in-law Sharon. Since that life-changing time, I have focused continually on how I could give back to donors and their families, my fellow transplant recipients and their families and the incredible caregivers and dedicated health care professionals at The Ross. Emily, Joe, Sharon and I are happy to announce the creation of the <strong><em>“Rita’s Corner of the World Fund”</em></strong> at The Ohio State University and The Ross Heart Hospital, a fund that will be dedicated to support the heart transplant program at Ohio State. This fund will focus on providing patient care to heart transplant patients as well as assisting in empowering Ohio State’s ongoing, world-class organ transplantation research. Our family named this fund after Rita Leite, who was an incredible mom to Joe and I and someone who made an enormous difference in all of our lives. Despite many challenges throughout her life, Rita always prioritized making a difference for others and found many ways to give back to her community. The fund’s namesake is a direct result of a conversation I had with her many years ago, when she reminded me that people do not always have to do large acts of kindness to change the world. Mom said that “sometimes we all need to just focus on improving our own little corners of the world. If many people can do that, just think of how many corners we can assemble to create an amazing mosaic and a better world.” Her words have stuck with our family over the years, and the newly created <strong><em>Rita’s Corner of the World Fund </em></strong>is our collective attempt to improve the little corner of the world for heart transplant patients and families through quality care and breakthrough research. Candidly, I never thought I would be talking about heart transplants and organ transplantation research that involved me personally. I was an avid runner and athlete, completing 154 marathons and participating in three Ironman triathlons. Life is very unpredictable, and my journey into the world of heart failure began in 2011 when I noticed a change in my running, as I was slowing down and starting to experience shortness of breath on my simple runs with my training group. Through the great work of cardiologists at Ohio State, an MRI revealed I had cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle that makes it exceedingly difficult for the heart to efficiently pump blood to the rest of the body. Obviously, this was shocking news to an athlete who prided myself on being constantly in good shape and taking care of myself. After a few years of trying to treat my condition with medications and a pacemaker, my heart continued to get weaker, and I was placed on the heart transplant list through Ohio State in October of 2015. Emily and I were just married in April of 2015, so this news impacted us and our families and friends dramatically. Our waiting began, hoping I would become one of the lucky patients who received a magical call that my life could be saved through a heart transplant. That incredible call came on Christmas Eve of 2015, as the amazingly talented team at The Ross told Emily and I that a heart became available, and we would be receiving the most incredible Christmas gift; a second chance at life. Joe, Sharon and my niece Megan flew to Ohio from their home in Texas that evening to be there for the transplant surgery, along with our dear friends Bill and Nan Burns. The people I love most in the world were the first to see me with my new heart. Emily, Joe, Sharon and I all realize that not everyone on an organ transplant list is as lucky as us to receive that incredible gift of life. In the case of my new heart, we all realize the courageous and selflessness that my donor and their family possessed to provide me with the greatest gift I could ever receive. A life was unfortunately lost so I could live, and it is especially important to me that I be a good steward to that precious gift by taking care of myself (I have run two additional marathons since the transplant) and giving back to the amazing community who made this all possible. <strong><em>Rita’s Corner of the World Fund</em><em> </em></strong>is our small attempt to give back to the very large community that saved my life. It is meant to honor heart donors and their families, health care and hospital caregivers at all levels and those waiting on transplant lists. It is our hope that this fund will provide both needed patient services to heart transplant recipients at Ohio State along with funding to conduct crucial breakthrough research in organ transplantation. In dreaming a little, wouldn’t it be amazing if our new fund could help provide the needed resources that creates “a new little corner of the world” through research discoveries that allow all transplant recipients to receive their “miracle call” and have a second chance at life with their families? That incredible research and patient care is going on right now at The Ohio State University’s Ross Heart Hospital. Emily, Joe, Sharon and I thank you for listening to my story and helping us give back to this amazing heart transplant and research community. We would be incredibly honored if you would join us in improving this important corner of our world by considering a donation to <strong><em>Rita’s Corner of the World Fund</em></strong>.

Make a Gift in Honor of Sonny Gordon

$28,000 raised from 138 gifts

Make a gift in honor of Sonny Gordon to raise funds and awareness for ALS.

Moving Mountains to Make a Difference in Honor of Claire Stafford

$27,592 raised from 48 gifts

Claire's mission is to bring hope to the men and women diagnosed with lung cancer every day and to help fund the innovative research necessary for a cure.

Claire's mission is to bring hope to the men and women diagnosed with lung cancer every day and to help fund the innovative research necessary for a cure. <p><span class="fr-deletable">[[Amount Raised]]</span> raised from <span class="fr-deletable">[[Gifts Received]]</span> gifts</p> Claire Connolly Stafford was diagnosed with STAGE IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in November 2018. Her <em>only</em> symptom was slight wheezing, a symptom she could have easily ignored. She thought she had allergies and wasn't even going to go to the doctor. A visit to her primary care physician quickly spiraled into an x-ray, CT Scan and a PET scan. Ultimately she was blind-sided with the horrific diagnosis of STAGE IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and at that time was given a life expectancy of six months. Claire's experience with Dr. Carbone at The James Cancer Center has given her and her family HOPE. Claire has just reached her six year milestone as a Lung Cancer Survivor, and continues leading a full life with the support of her beautiful family and friends. Lung cancer is grossly underfunded compared to the number of deaths it causes. Breast cancer has nearly 13 times more funding than lung cancer. The loss of lives per year due to lung cancer is nearly double that of breast cancer. The need is simple: we need more funding! This funding will support research for early detection and newer targeted treatments. Lung cancer has a dismal survival rate, with only a fifteen percent chance of surviving five years, and a less than 1% 5-year survival chance if diagnosed at stage IV, the stage at which it is most commonly diagnosed. It kills more people per year than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined. In fact, it kills more than twice as many women per year than breast cancer. There has been a negative stigma with the disease because of its relationship to smoking. However, sixty-five percent of the new cases of lung cancer are among nonsmokers and former smokers. The good news is, there are several new, effective targeted treatments with low toxicities on the horizon. Claire's mission is to bring hope to the men and women diagnosed with lung cancer every day and to help fund the innovative research necessary for a cure. She is grateful for the love and support from each and every one of you! <em>If you would like to make a gift via check please make it payable to The Ohio State University, and send it to The Ohio State University Foundation PO Box 710811 Columbus, OH 43271-0811. Please also put Buckeye Funder and the fund number (317170) in the memo field.</em>

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