11-19-2009

Contact: Medical Center Communications, (614) 293-3737

Stefanie Spielman hailed as "truly a champion"

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The following are statements from Ohio State President E. Gordon Gee, Dr. Michael Caligiuri, director of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and chief executive officer of the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute; and Lance Armstrong, champion cyclist, three-time cancer survivor and LIVESTRONG founder, regarding breast cancer survivor and advocate Stefanie Spielman, who died after more than a decade-long battle with breast cancer.

"Through her remarkable grace and compassion for others, Stefanie Spielman taught all of us powerful lessons about the human capacity for love and courage," said Gee. "She was an extraordinary person and one of the University's firmest of friends. We were deeply proud to be able to celebrate her accomplishments, and those of Chris and their wonderful family, during a ceremony at one of our football games this fall. I was blessed to know Stefanie, to witness her good work, and to count her as a friend. We will miss her mightily."

"Not only did Stefanie Spielman create the Stefanie's Champions annual event to honor cancer caregivers, but through her tireless devotion and advocacy for more research into the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, she helped raise more than $6.5 million for cancer research through the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research at The James," said Caliguiri. "She will be missed, but never forgotten. Her passion and commitment will live on for generations to come. She's truly a champion."

"Today we have lost a leader in the fight against cancer. Stefanie was a living example of courage and strength to everyone around her. Her perseverance was unmatchable. While the cancer community marks her passing, my family and I will keep the Spielmans in our thoughts as they say goodbye to their beloved wife and mother. For her sake, we will continue the battle she fought against a disease that claims too many women all over the world," said Armstrong.

For more information, visit: http://www.spielmanfund.com
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Click here for a high quality photograph of Stefanie and Chris Spielman: http://medicine.osu.edu/news/images/high_quality/Stef_Chris_Spielman.jpg

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