Tori DeScenza
Degrees
Bachelor of Science (B.S): Exercise Science Education | The Ohio State University 2016
Masters of Science (M.S.): Health and Exercise Science, Kinesiology | The Ohio State University 2019
Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD): Kinesiology: Health and Exercise Science, minor in Non Profit Studies 2022
Certifications
Certified Exercise Physiologist (C-EP) - American College of Sports Medicine
Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer (CET-ACSM) - American College of Sports Medicine
Here I wanted to take the time for you to get to know me, where I came from, and how this came to be. To start, I was an athlete all of my life, whether it was backyard football or Division 1 athletics. From a young age, sport was what consumed my every day. Later in my career, I had the opportunity to play lacrosse at Ohio State, yet it wasn’t until that point that my view of exercise and physical activity shifted to how those can impact overall health and not just athletic performance.
In 2004, my mother was diagnosed with stage IIIb metastatic breast cancer. She had undergone several chemotherapy and radiation treatments, and had a recurrence 6 years later in the bone, furthermore a recurrence in the brain a year after that. Her diagnosis and treatment were ongoing but she carried herself in a way that was humbling and astounding.
At age 11, I never would have imagined myself to be in the position I am right now. Throughout high school and college I never quite had a handle on where I wanted to take my studies. In 2012, my mother passed away from the disease as I was beginning my sophomore year of college. In the time that I had left of school that year I was fortunate to have come across an opportunity in research at Ohio State. The research project included working with prostate cancer patients and an exercise and dietary intervention. This experience, coupled with my mother's own journey had propelled my dive into the field of exercise science from that point forward. Since then I have dedicated my studies towards understanding how exercise and physical activity can help cancer patients and survivors alike.
After watching my mother attempt to take control of aspects of her life throughout her 8 year battle and failing to have all the resources needed, I have chosen to make some of those resources accessible. My hope is to create an outlet for those of you going through a similar process. To help you take control of the aspects in your own life that will assist in improving your own quality of life.
Xiaochen Zhang
Degrees
Bachelor of Medicine (MB): Prevention Medicine | China Medical University 2012
Master of Public Health (MPH): Epidemiology and Biostatistics | Temple University 2014
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Epidemiology | The Ohio State University (Expected 2022)
Previously, I worked in several cancer centers with Dr. Kathryn Schmitz, who is an internationally recognized expert on exercise physiology in cancer survivorship. She established a trans-disciplinary research program showed that physical activity, especially with resistance training, can improve physical function, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life in cancer survivors. This experience has honed my expertise testing exercise interventions in cancer survivors. Working closely with cancer patients, exercise physiologists, and oncologists, I saw the therapeutic effects of exercise and lifestyle interventions in providing numerous benefits across stages after a cancer diagnosis, which shaped a different perspective: exercise is medicine.
My career goal is to develop cancer prevention regimens that integrate lifestyle modification as a standard of care for the at-risk population, especially in under served areas, with a goal to reduce cancer risk and cancer-related health disparities. My overarching mission is to translate evidence-based lifestyle programs for at-risk populations, to improve their physical activity level, dietary quality, reduce body mass, and improve body composition to reduce cancer risk.
Aside from school and work, I like planes and boats. Nature and food are my passions. I like to explore the city via hot drinks in the winter and ice creams in the summer.
Zach Chaplow
Degrees
Bachelor of Science (B.S): Exercise Science Education | The Ohio State University 2015
Masters of Science (M.S.): Health and Exercise Science, Kinesiology | The Ohio State University 2017
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Kinesiology The Ohio State University 2022
I am a Certified Exercise Physiologist, Strength and Conditioning Specialist and student originally from Columbiana, Ohio. I received my Master’s degree in Kinesiology from The Ohio State University in 2018 and I am currently working toward my Ph.D. as part of the Exercise and Behavioral Medicine Lab. My background includes conducting lifestyle interventions for people coping with treatment and lifestyle related effects of cancer, obesity, metabolic disease, and osteoarthritis. I have a passion for holistic wellness and I believe in the power of physical activity to improve quality of life.
I am proud of my rural, small town roots and believe my experiences have shaped my work ethic and love of nature. Currently, I live in Grove City, Ohio with my fiancé and our pup. In my free time, I enjoy being on a trail or in the gym. Although I enjoy all sports and activities, I am a die-hard fan of Buckeye and Steeler football. I am always eager to hear what inspires others and to share stories and experiences (food, drink, music, travel, etc.). I am excited to be a part of the HERO team and I look forward to meeting you!
Jessica Bowman
I am a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sport Medicine and currently serve as the Lab Manager for the Exercise and Behavioral Medicine Lab at the Ohio State University. I've worked with a variety of clinical populations including knee osteoarthritis, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and older adult patients. My overarching career goals include helping people change their eating habits and exercise programs to sustain healthy living for a lifetime.
In my free time, I enjoy being outside, hanging on my family farm, and traveling. I'm proud to be a part of the HERO team and am excited to help you reach your health/fitness goals!
Degrees
Bachelor of Science (B.S): Exercise Science Education | The Ohio State University 2012
Masters of Science (M.S.): Health and Exercise Science, Kinesiology | The Ohio State University 2015