In 2021, Pelotonia proudly awarded the inaugural Mary Hyatt Courage Award to Michael Nestor to honor his outstanding contributions to cancer research and a life dedicated to advocacy, leadership, fundraising, and volunteerism. As a cancer advocate, Pelotonia staff alumni, and 6x Rider, Michael helped raise tens of millions of dollars to fund innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC—James. 

Today, Pelotonia remembers and celebrates the life of Michael Nestor whose battle against cancer was marked not only by his strength and courage, but also by his big heart and unwavering resilience.   

Michael’s unfaltering optimism in the face of adversity touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving an imprint of love, courage, and inspiration.  

Michael Nestor's lifelong commitment to philanthropy was ignited by early volunteer work, culminating in a decade of transformative contributions to cancer research and survivor support. From a young age, Michael developed a passion for helping others. He studied hospitality at Cornell University and worked at some of the world's leading hotels and resorts. After pursuing a master's degree in organizational leadership and ethics, Michael transitioned into the nonprofit sector, joining LIVESTRONG, and later Pelotonia as a staff member. Over the next decade, he dedicated his professional career to improving the lives of cancer survivors and funding innovative, lifesaving cancer research which has left a lasting legacy on the community. 

Michael also played a pivotal role in advancing the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. He and his husband, Doug Zullo, were among the first to marry in California before the state temporarily halted same-sex marriages in 2008. Their wedding celebration showcased the true meaning of commitment and their deep devotion to each other continued throughout life's joys and challenges. 

In July 2020, after a decade of working in the cancer nonprofit space, Michael was diagnosed with Myxoid Liposarcoma, an extremely rare soft tissue cancer. He underwent vigorous treatment at The James as well as MD Anderson in Houston, including a below-knee amputation on his right leg in November 2020.  

Despite his four-year battle with cancer, Michael's life was never defined by his illness. Instead, the experience uncovered strength and courage in himself that helped him push forward and deeply moved those around him.  

On March 11, 2024, at the age of 44, Michael passed away, leaving behind a loving family, countless friends, and an enduring legacy as a beacon of hope and light in the world. He is remembered for his exemplary gratitude, gentle smile, gregarious laugh, and thoughtful handwritten cards.  

This Pride Month and National Cancer Survivors Month, the Pelotonia community honors Michael for his contributions to our mission of ending cancer and celebrates his life as a champion of kindness.  

Michael’s colleague from LIVESTRONG and Pelotonia, Steph Zimmerman, Special Assistant to the Vice Chair at Pelotonia, shared, “Pelotonia unites people with a common goal and brings out the best of humanity. No one exemplified this more than Michael. He worked to not only create an environment of kindness among the Pelotonia staff, but to spread encouragement and hope throughout the broader community. Michael continued to inspire others and instill hope by sharing his own personal cancer story, being the first to encourage others going through hard times, and expressing gratitude at every opportunity. As we honor Michael this year and beyond, we look forward to creating lasting ways to celebrate his core value of kindness and make sure that his values remain at the heart of the Pelotonia community.”