To so many in our community, Chuck was a beacon of hope. He was one of the very few long-term survivors from the original Gleevec (STI-571) clinical trial, which he joined in 2001. For decades, Chuck represented what was possible, and his story gave hope to countless patients and families facing a GIST diagnosis.
This past summer, Chuck was diagnosed with a secondary, aggressive cancer lymphoma. Despite this difficult turn, he remained surrounded by love, and he passed peacefully last night with his family by his side.
Chuck often reminded us, “It is a blessing to be alive; we can give thanks by being a blessing to others.” He truly lived those words.
We hold Chuck’s family close in our thoughts and hearts, and we honor his extraordinary legacy, one that will continue to inspire hope for years to come.
As is our tradition, please light a candle to honor the incredible legacy of this wonderful man.
