The Life Raft Group is committed to enhancing the survival and quality of life for people living with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST), and other rare diseases, through patient-powered research, education and empowerment, and global advocacy efforts.
Other Programs Supported by The Life Raft Group:
PATIENT
Leverage patient perspective to drive innovative solutions in cancer research.
POWERED
Educate and empower patients to take a larger role in their care.
SCIENCE
Accelerate research outcomes through collaborative efforts.
FOR LIFE
Increase access to effective treatments worldwide.
Real World Evidence In Action
Traditional models for cancer research have resulted in many breakthrough treatments for patients, but it is not enough. The LRG’s approach to GIST research through real world evidence, relies on timely, accurate data from the patient’s perspective, with patient survival as the primary objective.
RECENT LRG DATA
Did you know that GIST is actually a family of cancers? Learn more about the science of GIST.
Dr. Monica Anderson
Diagnosed in 2012 with Adult GIST.
Bella Rocco
Diagnosed in 2009 with Pediatric
(SDH-deficient) GIST.
HELP US SAVE LIVES
The Life Raft Group is a community and it is up to all of us to make a difference. There are many ways to help. We always need patient tissue and data in our GIST patient registry. Volunteering your time or making a monetary donation also helps us drive research forward and save lives.
News
Health Equity Council Update 10-3-25
The Life Raft Group Health Equity Council meets biweekly to discuss strategies for ensuring that all patients have equitable access to healthcare and resources. This is an update from the past two meetings.
Manual de Nutrición Oncológica
This summer, GIST Chile released a cookbook in Spanish made with cancer patients in mind, filled with recipes for nourishment, comfort, and care.
GIST Day of Learning Los Angeles 2025
Saturday, September 13, 2025, The Life Raft Group hosted a GIST Day of Learning (GDOL) at the UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center.
Patient of the Month – August 2025: Tom Malone
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Tom Malone shares his story.
Patient of the Month – September 2025: Megan O’Connor
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Megan O'Connor shares her story.
Patient of the Month – July 2025: Jim Mills
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Jim Mills shares his story.
Medicare Changes in 2025
A look at 2025 Medicare updates and how Accessia Health can help with costs, coverage guidance, and support services.
Patient of the Month – June 2025: Russell Baratz
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Russell Baratz shares his story.
GLOBAL PARTNERS & AFFILIATIONS
