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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230502T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230502T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230403T162300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T163003Z
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SUMMARY:Managing Your Mental Health After Diagnosis
DESCRIPTION:Receiving a cancer diagnosis and undergoing cancer treatment can be a highly stressful and emotionally challenging experience. Patients may experience a range of emotions such as fear\, anxiety\, depression and grief\, as well as many physical symptoms. Paying attention to your mental health is an important part of coping with a cancer diagnosis. The Life Raft Group is partnering with Sarah Paul of CancerCare to host this webinar on May 2nd at 12 ET to discuss why mental health matters and discover ways to find the emotional support that is right for you. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter:\nSarah Paul\, LCSW\, OSW-C\nDirector of Clinical Programs\, CancerCare \nMs. Paul is the Director of Clinical Programs and is responsible for delivering CancerCare’s free services to people whose lives are affected by cancer while overseeing administrative aspects of the social work department. Sarah is passionate about creating and developing specialized programs to meet the needs of underserved populations and has a specialization in working with children\, adolescents and young adults. Before starting at CancerCare\, she received her BA in Psychology from SUNY New Paltz and her Master’s in Social Work from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. She is a board certified oncology social worker and in 2020\, she was awarded the Aquamarine Leadership Award by the National Association of Social Workers\, New York City Chapter. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/managing-mental-health-after-diagnosis/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230513T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230514T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230509T134100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230509T134214Z
UID:10000498-1683964800-1684083600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:New Horizons GIST Conference
DESCRIPTION:In-Person Registrations are closed but you can still use the link to join virtually! \nNEW HORIZONS GIST is the most important global annual conference for GIST patient advocates. At NEW HORIZONS GIST\, patients from the global GIST patient community come together\, can interact with top GIST experts\, have access to state‐of‐the‐art medical and scientific information and can exchange best practice in patient advocacy among each other. The conference is a balanced symbiosis of medical content\, advocacy topics and capacity building sessions. After more than 2 years living under the restrictions of the pandemic\, we are happy to annouce that NEW HORIZONS GIST will be held as a hybrid meeting in 2023. \nOn behalf of the “NEW HORIZONS GIST Steering Committee”\, we are very pleased to announce the 2023 NEW HORIZONS GIST Conference May 13 & 14 in Dublin\, Ireland and online via Zoom – for the first time in conjunction with the SPAGN Annual Conference. \nREGISTERPDF of agenda here
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/new-horizons-gist-conference-2/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://liferaftgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/NEW_HORIZONS_GIST_2023_Dubli_Ireland_Briefkopf_L1-1-2048x537-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230519T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230519T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230424T031643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230509T171719Z
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SUMMARY:Clinical Trials 101
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Ciara Kelly will be presenting “Clinical Trials 101” to GIST patients and caretakers on May 19th\, 2023 at 12pm ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Kelly will discuss types of clinical trials\, how to find a clinical trial\, current open clinical trials\, and more. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\nDr. Ciara Kelly\,\nMedical Oncologist\, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center \nDr. Kelly is a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center who has expertise in treating and researching bone and soft tissue sarcomas and merkel cell carcinoma. She works very closely with a team of medical oncologists\, surgeons\, radiation oncologists\, nurses\, and patient support advocates. \nDr. Kelly’s research aims to develop new and more personalized therapies to treat sarcomas. She is actively involved in developing and designing clinical trials that will look at novel agents that target molecular changes within tumors. She is also studying innovative combination immunotherapy options that will harness a person’s own immune defenses to fight their cancer. \nDr. Kelly has a particular interest in advancing understanding of gastrointestinal stromal tumors and other sarcomas at the molecular level. She is using liquid biopsies to analyze tumor DNA in the blood and tumor biopsies to uncover a biomarker that will ultimately help match the best treatment option with each individual person’s tumor. Dr. Kelly is committed to designing and developing novel therapeutic clinical trials for GIST patients that incorporate correlative studies which provide an opportunity to further our understanding of this disease. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/clinical-trials-101/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230520T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230520T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230302T155050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230510T180827Z
UID:10000486-1684571400-1684602000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Day of Learning - Stanford
DESCRIPTION:GDOL Stanford is happening on May 20th\, 2023\nStanford University’s Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center\n326 Galvez Street Stanford Stanford\, CA 94305-6105 \nClick here for AGENDA \n \nREGISTERWhat is a GDOL?\nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe mission of the Life Raft Group is to enhance survival and quality of life for people living with GIST through patient-powered research\, education and empowerment\, and global advocacy efforts. The LRG vision is to champion patient-powered science and drastically increase long-term survivorship for all cancer patients. To accomplish this\, we rely on four key pillars:\n– Leverage the patient perspective to drive innovative solutions in cancer research\n– Educate and empower patients to take a larger role in their care\n– Accelerate research outcomes through collaborative efforts\n– Increase access to effective treatments worldwide \nThank you to our 2023 GDOL Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-day-of-learning-stanford/
LOCATION:Stanford University Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center\, Fischer Conference Center\, 326 Galvez Street\, Stanford\, California\, 94305
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Diana Nieves":MAILTO:dnieves@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230525T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230525T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230509T140037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230509T140037Z
UID:10000499-1685041200-1685041200@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Manejo de la Nutrición y Enfoques Multidisciplinarios en GIST
DESCRIPTION:Te invitamos a participar de este webinar organizado por Fundación #GIST México Inscripciones en el siguiente link –\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe invite you to participate in this webinar organized by Fundación #GIST Mexico. Registration at the following link –\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/manejo-de-la-nutricion-y-enfoques-multidisciplinarios-en-gist/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://liferaftgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/344866936_1426486971428486_4897021564488838357_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230620T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230620T183000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230509T171420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230601T192629Z
UID:10000500-1687285800-1687285800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Updates from ASCO
DESCRIPTION:ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) is an important conference in the oncology community where new scientific research updates are shared. The Life Raft Group is excited to host Dr. Herbert Loong\, who will summarize abstracts and presentations that were presented during this conference that are relevant to the GIST patient community. \nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\nHerbert H. Loong\, MD\nThe Chinese University of Hong Kong \nDr. Herbert H. Loong holds conjoint appointments of Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Oncology and Deputy Medical Director of the Phase 1 Clinical Trials Centre of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is also the current and founding convenor of the Prince of Wales Hospital Adult Sarcoma Multidisciplinary Team. \nDr. Loong obtained his medical degree with a Distinction in Surgery from The University of Hong Kong in 2003. He has completed a Fellowship in Drug Development at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto\, Canada with a special focus on Experimental Therapeutics. His clinical and research interests also include Sarcoma Medical Oncology\, Thoracic Oncology and Health Economics. He is a recipient of the European Cancer Congress Fellowship Grant (2013)\, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting Merit Award (2014)\, the Hong Kong College of Physicians Young Investigators’ Award (2014). Nominated by patients and their caregivers\, Dr. Loong led the Lung Cancer Team at CUHK to be bestowed the IASLC Foundation Cancer Care Team Award in recognition for providing the best thoracic oncology care in “Asia & Rest of the World” in 2018. \nDr. Loong has served or continues to serve in various capacities in various professional international oncology bodies\, including the International Affairs Committee and the Asia-Pacific Regional Council of ASCO\, the Membership\, Education and Communications Committees of the IASLC. He has been elected as a Board Member of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) for 2022-2024. He is also a founding executive committee member of the newly formed Asia Pacific Oncology Drug Development Network (APODDC). He is also a Board Member in the specialty of Medical Oncology in the Hong Kong College of Physicians. In his appointment as a Registration Committee member of Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong\, he helps oversee the registration of medicinal products and clinical trials in the territory. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-updates-from-asco/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230918T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230918T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230721T225845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230822T183423Z
UID:10000567-1695038400-1695038400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Getting the GIST of It: How to Manage Side Effects of GIST Therapies
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group has partnered with Emmeline C. Academia\, PharmD\, BCOP of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center to present “Getting the GIST of it: How to Manage Side Effects of GIST Therapies” for GIST patients and caretakers on September 18th\, 2023 at 12pm. During this virtual presentation\, Ms. Academia will provide an overview of GIST treatments and their side effects as well as home management for each type of symptom and when to call the clinic. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter:\nEmmeline C. Academia\, PharmD\, BCOP \nBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center \nMs. Academia is a practicing clinical pharmacy specialist in adult oncology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. She is board certified in oncology\, and sub-specializes in gastrointestinal and thoracic malignancies\, along with sarcoma. She precepts students from Northeastern University and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She is a contributing editor for MET Crusaders\, a nonprofit organization dedicated to patients with MET alterations. She also reviews and writes for GoodRx\, focusing on oncology-related medications and topics\, and is the co-author of several published journal articles. Dr. Academia received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of California\, San Francisco before completing 2 years of pharmacy residency at the University of Colorado in general pharmacy practice\, followed by specialized training in adult oncology. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/manage-side-effects/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T141500
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230314T192629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240216T204214Z
UID:10000489-1698481800-1698502500@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Day of Learning - Colorado
DESCRIPTION:GDOL Denver (Aurora)\, Colorado is happening on October 28th\, 2023! \nREGISTERGDOL Denver (Aurora)\, Colorado is happening on October 28th\, 2023!\nClick image for a PDF of agenda: \n \nWhat is a GDOL?\nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe mission of the Life Raft Group is to enhance survival and quality of life for people living with GIST through patient-powered research\, education and empowerment\, and global advocacy efforts. The LRG vision is to champion patient-powered science and drastically increase long-term survivorship for all cancer patients. To accomplish this\, we rely on four key pillars:\n– Leverage the patient perspective to drive innovative solutions in cancer research\n– Educate and empower patients to take a larger role in their care\n– Accelerate research outcomes through collaborative efforts\n– Increase access to effective treatments worldwide \nThank you to our 2023 GDOL Sponsors!\n \n 
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-day-of-learning-colorado-2023/
LOCATION:Anschutz Health and Sciences Building\, Room 2007\, 1890 N Revere Ct.\, Aurora\, 80045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Diana Nieves":MAILTO:dnieves@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231127T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231127T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20231031T133024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231106T143542Z
UID:10000632-1701104400-1701104400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Updates from CTOS
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Herbert Loong of the Chinese University of Hong Kong to present “GIST Updates from CTOS 2023” to GIST patients and caregivers on November 27th at 5pm ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Loong will discuss scientific updates relevant to GIST patients that were exhibited at the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) conference. A Q&A segment will follow Dr. Loong’s presentation. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\nHerbert H. Loong\, MD\nThe Chinese University of Hong Kong \nDr. Herbert H. Loong holds conjoint appointments of Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Oncology and Deputy Medical Director of the Phase 1 Clinical Trials Centre of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is also the current and founding convenor of the Prince of Wales Hospital Adult Sarcoma Multidisciplinary Team. \nDr. Loong obtained his medical degree with a Distinction in Surgery from The University of Hong Kong in 2003. He has completed a Fellowship in Drug Development at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto\, Canada with a special focus on Experimental Therapeutics. His clinical and research interests also include Sarcoma Medical Oncology\, Thoracic Oncology and Health Economics. He is a recipient of the European Cancer Congress Fellowship Grant (2013)\, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting Merit Award (2014)\, the Hong Kong College of Physicians Young Investigators’ Award (2014). Nominated by patients and their caregivers\, Dr. Loong led the Lung Cancer Team at CUHK to be bestowed the IASLC Foundation Cancer Care Team Award in recognition for providing the best thoracic oncology care in “Asia & Rest of the World” in 2018. \nDr. Loong has served or continues to serve in various capacities in various professional international oncology bodies\, including the International Affairs Committee and the Asia-Pacific Regional Council of ASCO\, the Membership\, Education and Communications Committees of the IASLC. He has been elected as a Board Member of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) for 2022-2024. He is also a founding executive committee member of the newly formed Asia Pacific Oncology Drug Development Network (APODDC). He is also a Board Member in the specialty of Medical Oncology in the Hong Kong College of Physicians. In his appointment as a Registration Committee member of Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong\, he helps oversee the registration of medicinal products and clinical trials in the territory. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-updates-from-ctos/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231207T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231207T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20231116T164425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231116T164647Z
UID:10000633-1701954000-1701954000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Matching Biomarkers to Disease Biology & Therapy
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Jason Sicklick of UC San Diego Health’s Moores Cancer Center to present “Matching Biomarker to Biology and Therapy” for the GIST community on December 7th\, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Sicklick will discuss the importance of biomarker testing and research that correlates the biology of GIST with treatment. A Q&A session will follow the presentations. \nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\nDr. Jason Sicklick\nMoores Cancer Center\, US San Diego Health \nDr. Sicklick is an internationally recognized surgical oncologist who specializes in treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)\, abdominal/retroperitoneal sarcomas\, and liver tumors. \nHe is a champion of innovation and collaboration to improve outcomes for cancer patients. He leader of the Sarcoma Disease Team and Co-leader of the Structural and Function Genomics Program at UC San Diego Health’s Moores Cancer Center. Dr. Sicklick is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Soft-Tissue Sarcoma Committee and GIST Subcommittee\, which develops best practices for treating these rare and often challenging-to-treat cancers. \nAs professor of surgery and pharmacology at UC San Diego School of Medicine\, Dr. Sicklick conducts basic\, translational and clinical research to improve our understanding of GIST\, as well as to enhance precision medicine approaches for treating metastatic cancers. His laboratory focuses on the molecular mechanisms of GIST development and drug resistance. \nThank you to our 2023 Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/matching-biomarkers-to-disease/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240229T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240229T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240220T193104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240221T182457Z
UID:10000768-1709211600-1709211600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Leaping into Clinical Trials
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER\nJoin us as we leap into the world of GIST clinical trials. In this session of our ‘Let’s Get the GIST of It Series’\, we will discuss new and emerging clinical trials\, as well as updates from existing trials. We will focus on details of each trial including trial site locations and eligibility criteria. \nWe will talk about trials that are for KIT\, PDGFRA\, SDH-deficient mutations along with NTRK fusions. The session will be interactive\, so attendees are encouraged to ask questions and participate. We invite patients and caregivers to attend. \nThe event will be hosted by Sahibjeet Parmar\, Director of Data Management & Research at The Life Raft Group.
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-leaping-into-clinical-trials/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Denisse Evans":MAILTO:devans@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240411T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240411T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240313T180524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240403T190917Z
UID:10000770-1712836800-1712836800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Gaining Insight on the INSIGHT Phase 3 Study
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Neeta Somaiah of MD Anderson Cancer Center to host "Gaining Insight on the Phase 3 INSIGHT Clinical Trial" for the GIST community on April 11th\, 2024 from 12-1:15 pm ET. During the webinar\, Dr. Somaiah will present an overview of Deciphera Pharmaceutical's Phase 3 INSIGHT Clinical Trial. This study tests the investigational use of ripretinib in a subset of patients living with GIST. Webinar participants will learn about the INSIGHT study\, including eligibility\, site locations\, and study rationale. A Q & A session will follow the presentation.    \nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician's guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\nNeeta Somaiah\, MD\nMD Anderson Cancer Center \nDr. Neeta Somaiah received her medical degree from Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi\, India and has trained at St. John’s Episcopal in New York\, Drexel University Hospital and Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia\, prior to joining MD Anderson Cancer Center.  \nDr. Somaiah joined MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2012.  She has thirteen years of sarcoma and clinical research experience. She is board certified in Medical Oncology.  Her primary clinical and research focus is soft tissue sarcomas\, specifically liposarcomas and GIST.  She currently serves as the Principal Investigator of three investigator-initiated trials and nine cooperative group and industry-sponsored clinical trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center and has in depth knowledge with extensive experience in the design and execution of clinical trials. She also has multiple ongoing collaborations for translational research\, both retrospective and prospective\, that help improve the understanding of these rare group of diseases and explore the role of immunotherapy as a therapeutic avenue.  Dr. Somaiah has been presented many honors for her expertise and contributions to science\, including an Exceptional Women in Medicine award and is among the top 1% providers nationally.   \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsor!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gaining-insight-on-the-insight-phase-3-study/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240430T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240430T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240403T191818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240403T191818Z
UID:10000771-1714478400-1714478400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Educate Yourself on GIST Research
DESCRIPTION:How to Educate Yourself on GIST Research – Searching the Web for GIST Science Publications\nLife Raft Group Science Team Member Jim Hughes will present “How to Educate Yourself on GIST Research- Searching the Web for GIST Science Publications” to GIST patients & caregivers on April 30th\, 2024 at 12pm ET. During this virtual presentation\, Jim will outline the importance of patients and caregivers researching their cancer in order to best advocate for themselves. Jim will explain the importance of GIST publications and how to effectively do your own research\, and how to work together with fellow community members to share research findings. \nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nJim Hughes\nLRG Clinical Trials Database Coordinator/Science Team Member \nJim Hughes attended Kenyon College\, Ohio and Loyola University\, Chicago where he earned a BA in Philosophy. Between schools Jim served as an officer in the United States Army in the US and Vietnam and following his service worked in telecommunications for 35 years. \nJim and Margi are the parents of two children\, Nancy and Jamie. Nancy Hughes Welsh was an early member of The Life Raft Group (2002). Nancy was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma in 1991 at age 23. After ten years of surgery and chemotherapy Nancy was re-diagnosed with GIST in 2001. Nancy participated in the Phase Three imatinib trial in 2001 and the Phase Two sunitinib trial in 2003. Nancy’s GIST was eventually diagnosed as SDH epimutant and passed away in 2005. \nJim serves as a Life Raft Group Board Member\, our Clinical Trials Database Coordinator and is a founding member of the LRG Science Team. \n  \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/educate-yourself-on-gist-research/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240518T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240518T150000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240202T144246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240813T205301Z
UID:10000766-1716021000-1716044400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GDOL Chicago 2024
DESCRIPTION:GDOL Chicago is an in-person event and will be held at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine\, Lurie Baldwin Auditorium. \nREGISTERWhat is a GDOL? \nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe 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. Our vision is to empower a future fueled by data\, guiding our journey toward cures for rare diseases. \nIf you have any questions\, please contact Diana Nieves at dnieves@liferaftgroup.org \nClick image for a PDF of the Agenda: \nThank you to our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gdol-chicago-2024/
LOCATION:Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine\, Lurie Baldwin Auditorium\, 303 East Superior Street\, Chicago\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Diana Nieves":MAILTO:dnieves@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240522T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240522T110000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240422T181945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240423T174622Z
UID:10000772-1716375600-1716375600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Demystifying Clinical Trials
DESCRIPTION:Insights from Experts and Participants\nJoin us May 22nd at 11am ET for an informative webinar presented by Dr. Candace Haddox of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute offering invaluable insights into the world of clinical trials in honor of International Clinical Trials Awareness Day. Dr. Haddox will delve into the fundamentals of clinical trials\, discussing their significance\, weighing the pros and cons of participation\, and guiding attendees through the entire process\, from initiation to conclusion. Following Dr. Haddox’s presentation\, there will be an interactive discussion with GISTer Kandee Evans\, currently enrolled in a clinical trial\, offering firsthand experiences and perspectives. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\n \nDr. Candace Haddox \nDana-Farber Cancer Institute \nDr. Haddox is an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School\, and a medical oncologist and clinical/translational investigator in the Sarcoma Center and the Center for Cancer Therapeutic Innovation at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Haddox’s research focuses on developing novel therapies rooted in sarcoma biology and determining mechanisms of treatment response and resistance\, particularly in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). \nDr. Haddox received her Bachelor of Science in neurobiology from the University of Miami. She completed a post-baccalaureate research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health and received her Medical Degree from the University of South Florida. Dr. Haddox completed a residency in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester\, Minnesota\, and a fellowship in Medical Oncology at Duke University\, where she also served as Chief Fellow. She joined the faculty at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2021\, where she currently sees patients with sarcomas and leads clinical trials in early drug development. \n \nKandee Evans \nGIST Advocate \nWith a career spanning over three decades\, Kandee Evans is a project management veteran who knows how to make things happen. After dedicating 30 years to her profession\, Kandee recently left her job to focus on her health as a GIST survivor and warrior. Not one to back down from a challenge\, she previously advocated fiercely for her oldest son when he was diagnosed with autism at just two years old. Now\, as a devoted wife and mother of two amazing sons\, Kandee continues to take on each day with grace\, courage\, and determination. \nAt the forefront of GIST research\, Kandee is making a difference through participation. She enrolled in a clinical trial with the University of Miami in February 2024\, she is helping test the effects of IDRX-42 under the direction of Dr. Jonathan Trent.  Her selfless commitment will provide key insights and move science one step closer to finding a treatment for this devastating disease. Kandee’s courage underscores the power of individuals to advance medical progress through clinical trial involvement. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/demystifying-clinical-trials-insights-from-experts-and-participants/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240618T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240618T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240422T181458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240422T182217Z
UID:10000773-1718737200-1718737200@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Updates from ASCO
DESCRIPTION:The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is an important conference in the oncology community where new scientific research updates are shared. The Life Raft Group is excited to partner with Dr. Herbert Loong\, who will summarize abstracts and presentations that were presented during ASCO 2024 that are relevant to the GIST patient community. Join us June 18th at 7pm ET for this virtual presentation. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Herbert H. Loong\nThe Chinese University of Hong Kong \nDr. Herbert H. Loong holds conjoint appointments of Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Oncology and Deputy Medical Director of the Phase 1 Clinical Trials Centre of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is also the current and founding convenor of the Prince of Wales Hospital Adult Sarcoma Multidisciplinary Team. \nDr. Loong has served or continues to serve in various capacities in various professional international oncology bodies\, including the International Affairs Committee and the Asia-Pacific Regional Council of ASCO\, the Membership\, Education and Communications Committees of the IASLC. He has been elected as a Board Member of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) for 2022-2024. He is also a founding executive committee member of the newly formed Asia Pacific Oncology Drug Development Network (APODDC). He is also a Board Member in the specialty of Medical Oncology in the Hong Kong College of Physicians. In his appointment as a Registration Committee member of Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong\, he helps oversee the registration of medicinal products and clinical trials in the territory. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/updates-asco-2024/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240712T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240712T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240617T175754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T151017Z
UID:10000784-1720785600-1720785600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Awareness Day: A Focus on GIST Research
DESCRIPTION:July 13th\, GIST Awareness Day\, is a time when GIST experts\, patients\, and caregivers come together to educate the public about this disease and advocate for finding a cure.  The Life Raft Group invites GIST patients and caregivers to celebrate GIST Awareness Day with us on July 12th at 12PM ET. During this virtual event\, Dr. Matthew Hemming and PhD candidate Favour Akabogu of UMass Cancer Center will discuss exploring mechanisms driving GIST\, treatment efficacy\, and clinical outcomes\, as well as the importance of patient involvement in rare disease research. An interactive Q&A segment will follow their presentations. \n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\n \nDr. Matthew Hemming\nUMass Chan Medical School \nDr. Matthew Hemming  is an assistant professor of medicine at UMass Chan Medical School\, practicing sarcoma medical oncologist\, and principal investigator of the SarcomaLab. He received his BS from UC San Diego\, PhD from Harvard University\, and MD from Harvard Medical School. He completed internal medicine residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and Hematology/Oncology fellowship at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He has focused his clinical practice and laboratory work on sarcoma and GIST\, with the goal to improve diagnostic and treatment strategies through basic and translational research. \n \nFavour Akabogu\nPhD Candidate \nFavour Akabogu is a PhD candidate in the SarcomaLab through the Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at UMass Chan Medical School where she studies gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) with a focus on identifying novel treatment options. She got her B.A in Biology at Berea College in Kentucky and worked as a Research Associate at Vanderbilt University where she investigated the role of Discodain Domain Receptors (DDRs) in the progression of acute kidney injury to kidney fibrosis. Additionally\, she worked in collaboration with the CDC on understanding the household transmission respiratory disease particularly SARS-CoV2\, RSV and Influenza. She is passionate about healthcare and drug discovery through scientific innovation. She loves traveling\, dancing\, and spending time with family and friends in her free time. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-awareness-day-a-focus-on-gist-research/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240719
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240722
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20230809T123922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240816T145009Z
UID:10000624-1721347200-1721606399@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Life Fest 2024 - San José
DESCRIPTION:REGISTERLife Fest 2024 is July 19th – 21st in San José\, CA!\nLife Fest is a unique event where patients and caregivers come together for a weekend to interact with each other and the medical and scientific communities that serve them. Faced with a rare form of cancer\, GIST patients have a great need for information about this disease\, particularly as the science evolves and our understanding reveals a complex set of subtypes of GIST\, each responding differently to available treatments. Each year brings a wealth of new information\, and patients are eager to learn about the latest treatments.  \nLife Fest workshops provide patients with emerging medical information\, and they come away with a deeper knowledge of the disease\, treatments and side effect management. They find hope in knowing the scientific community is working toward a cure\, and hope is such a vital asset as they struggle day by day for survival.  \nThe Life Raft Group emerged in recognition of the tremendous need for support in the GIST community. Life Fest 2024 will provide patients and caregivers with that support. Coming together with fellow patients from all walks of life from around the world is a meaningful and powerful experience. In addition to our traditional educational workshops\, Life Fest 2024 will feature scientific presentations highlighting the newest research and the latest treatments.  \nView presentations & photo galleries of previous Life Fest events \nClick image for a PDF of the Agenda: \n \nParking\, Hotels & Flights\nParking for the conference location (Signia Hilton Hotel San Jose): \nValet parking from Reef Valet at the hotel is available for $47 overnight. Hourly parking rates are $20.00 for the first hour with $2.00 for each additional hour (not to exceed $47.00. \nAlternate parking:\n50 W San Fernando St Garage\, (408) 283-5063\nhttps://www.parkme.com/lot/22188/50-west-san-jose-ca\n \n285 S Market St Parking Lot\nhttps://www.parkvel.com/california/san-jose/285-s-market-st-parking/ \nFor additional parking locations nearby and located in downtown: https://www.sanjose.org/trip-ideas/parking \nHotel Information\nThe LRG has secured two blocks of hotel rooms for guests stays at two price points. \nThese special group rates will be available until July 1\, 2024. \nSignia Hilton San Jose\n170 S Market Street\nSan Jose\, CA 95113\n408-998-3975 \nLife Fest Group* \n\nRooms are available at the Hilton San Jose at a different price point. This hotel is within walking distance from our Life Fest conference site at the Signia. \nThese special group rates will be available until June 25\, 2024. \nHilton San Jose\n300 Almaden Boulevard\nSan Jose\, CA 95110\n408.947.4453 \nLIFE FEST (hilton.com) \n\nAirline Discounts for Life Fest attendees:\nDelta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for The Life Raft Group. \nPlease click here to book your flights. \nYou may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday\, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NM3GE*Please note there is not a service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via our reservation 800 number. \n\nUnited Airlines is pleased to partner with The Life Raft Group for special discounts.\nTo make flight reservations\, please click on discount code ZPCQ398065 \n– MileagePlus members earn valuable miles for their travel when using the Meetings discount code.\n– You may also call United Meetings Reservation Desk Monday – Friday at (800) 426-1122 for booking assistance.\n– Booking fees are waived for Meeting reservations.\n– International customers may contact their local United Reservation Desk. \n\nDonate to the Life Fest Scholarship Fund 2024\nAny questions about Life Fest 2024? \nPlease reach out to Brian Morello\, Director of Development\, at bmorello@liferaftgroup.org \nOur Sponsors:
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/life-fest-2024-san-jose/
LOCATION:Signia by Hilton San Jose\, 170 S. Market St\, San Jose\, CA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Brian Morello":MAILTO:bmorello@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240724T133110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240724T134516Z
UID:10000786-1724068800-1724068800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Managing Side Effects of GIST Therapies
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group has partnered with Mia Weiss\, MD of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis to present “Managing Side Effects of GIST Therapies” to GIST patients and caretakers on August 19\, 2024 at 12pm. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Weiss will provide an overview of GIST treatments and their side effects as well as home management for each type of symptom and when to call the clinic. \n\n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Mia Weiss\nWashington University School of Medicine in St. Louis \nMia C. Weiss\, M.D. is a medical oncologist with clinical interest in the care of patients with localized and metastatic soft tissue and bone sarcomas. She works collaboratively with pathologists\, radiation oncologists\, and orthopedic surgeons to assess\, diagnose\, and treat these complex malignancies. She is a member of the American College of Physicians\, the American Society of Clinical Oncology\, and the Connective Tissue Oncology Society. Her research interests include clinical trial development to assess efficacy of novel therapies in the treatment of metastatic sarcoma to ultimately improve patient survival and quality of life. She has particular interest related to genomics in sarcoma and finding ways to elucidate which patients are more likely to respond to targeted therapy and why some do not. Dr. Weiss has published several articles during her fellowship which most recently included a review on the use of Tazemetostat in epithelioid sarcoma\, a novel epigenetic regulator and the first of its kind to be approved in a solid tumor. Additionally\, Dr. Weiss has a strong interest in establishing a continuing medical educational program for community based primary care physicians and surgeons related to sarcoma and the importance of referring patients with soft tissue masses to an oncologic surgeon and ideally\, a sarcoma center\, to ensure optimal outcomes for patients. Dr. Weiss looks forward to continuing a career devoted to patient care\, research\, and education. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/managing-side-effects-of-gist-therapies/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240909T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240909T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240812T202329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240812T202409Z
UID:10000788-1725883200-1725883200@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Locoregional Therapies for Treatment of GIST in the Liver
DESCRIPTION:Interventional radiology is a medical specialty that performs various minimally-invasive procedures to treat cancer and other diseases. The Life Raft Group invites world-renowned interventional radiologist Edward Kim\, MD FSIR of Mount Sinai to present “Locoregional Therapies for Treatment of GIST in the Liver” on September 9th at 12pm ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Kim will describe various locoregional therapies and their appropriate uses\, as well as the role of locoregional therapies and systemic therapy in treating GIST when it metastasizes in the liver. A Q&A portion will follow the presentation. \n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Edward Kim\nMount Sinai Medical Center \nEdward Kim\, MD FSIR is Professor of Radiology and Surgery and Director of Interventional Oncology at Mount Sinai Health Systems\, under the Division of Interventional Radiology. He attended Rutgers Medical School and finished his Interventional Radiology training at Mount Sinai.  Dr. Kim is a world-renowned Interventional Radiologist\, who focuses on minimally invasive treatments\, known as locoregional therapies\, for the treatment of liver cancer.  He has authored numerous influential peer reviewed publications and runs multiple prospective clinical trials.  He has been invited to be course director and faculty at numerous meetings throughout the world.  He believes that best patient care is achieved through a multidisciplinary collaboration and helps lead the multidisciplinary tumor board at Mount Sinai\, as well as helped institute multidisciplinary office hours with liver transplant\, hepatology and surgery.  He is a thought leader in liver cancer\, especially with regards to radioembolization\, thermal ablation and chemoembolization\, as well as combination therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/locoregional-therapies-for-treatment-of-gist-in-the-liver/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240914T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240914T080000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240715T141924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240820T182732Z
UID:10000785-1726300800-1726300800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GDOL Ohio 2024
DESCRIPTION:GDOL Ohio is being held in-person at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center\, Biomedical Research Tower (BRT)\, Room 115\, Columbus\, OH 43210. \nREGISTRATIONWhat is a GDOL? \nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe 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. Our vision is to empower a future fueled by data\, guiding our journey toward cures for rare diseases. \nIf you have any questions\, please contact Brian Morello at bmorello@liferaftgroup.org \nClick image for a PDF of the Agenda: \n\nThank you to our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gdol-ohio-2024/
LOCATION:The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center\, Biomedical Research Tower (BRT)\, 460 W 12th Ave\, Columbus\, OH\, 43210\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Brian Morello":MAILTO:bmorello@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240928T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240928T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240829T183610Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240829T183610Z
UID:10000791-1727514000-1727542800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GDOL Calgary
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION\nPlease join us for a full day GIST Day of Learning event in Calgary\, Alberta on Saturday September 28\, 2024.\nLocation:  Hotel Alt East Village – 635 Confluence Way SE\, Calgary\, Canada\nRefreshments and Lunch will be provided along with a post conference networking event!\nPatients\, caregivers and family are all welcome at this FREE event. \nSpeakers:\nDr. Xiolan Feng Medical Oncologist\, Tom Baker Cancer Centre. Dr. Feng will be speaking about mutational analysis.\nDr. Andrew Blakely will joining us from the NIH National Cancer Institue to talk about his Surgical Trial.\nDr. Herbert Loong will be presenting on current clinical trials including the Cogent Biosciences PEAK Trial.\nGIST 101 to be presented by David Josephy.\nLiving with the emotional impact of GIST group session with Kristin Austman.\nPatient Panel led by Hazel McLeod.
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gdol-calgary/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://liferaftgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GDOL-Calgary-Featured-Image.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="GIST Sarcoma Life Raft Group Canada":MAILTO:yvonne.nunnaro@liferaftgroup.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241007T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241007T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240828T192519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240904T152915Z
UID:10000790-1728306000-1728306000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:IDRX-42: Trial Design & Emerging Data from StrateGIST 1
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group invites you to “IDRX-42: Trial Design and Emerging Data from the StrateGIST 1 Study”\, on October 7th\, 2024 at 1PM ET. During this educational webinar\, Suzanne George\, MD of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will review emerging data from the first-in-human StrateGIST 1 trial of IDRX-42 in patients with advanced GIST. Dr. George will also discuss the design and rationale for the ongoing Phase 1b portion of the trial\, including first- and second-line cohorts. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Suzanne George\nSarcoma Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute \nSuzanne George\, MD is the Division Chief of the Sarcoma Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute who leads a team focused on research and clinical care of patients with sarcomas and GIST. She has an extensive research experience in clinical trials and drug development and cares for patient from across New England\, the US and internationally. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsor!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/idrx-42-trial-design-and-emerging-data-from-the-strategist1-study/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241030
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241031
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20240917T172132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T131216Z
UID:10000792-1730246400-1730332799@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GDOL Miami Virtual
DESCRIPTION:GDOL Miami is being held virtually with the GIST experts at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. \nREGISTERWhat is a GDOL? \nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe 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. Our vision is to empower a future fueled by data\, guiding our journey toward cures for rare diseases. \nIf you have any questions\, please contact Brian Morello at bmorello@liferaftgroup.org \nClick Image for a PDF of the Agenda\n \nThank you to our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gdol-miami-2/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Brian Morello":MAILTO:bmorello@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20241009T190246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241107T135829Z
UID:10000794-1730898000-1730898000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Know Your Mutation:  Why is Biomarker Testing Important in GIST?
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group invites you to “Know Your Mutation: Why is Biomarker Testing Important in GIST?”\, on November 6th\, 2024 at 1PM ET. During this educational webinar\, Michelle Harris and Calvin Chao of Tempus will discuss the importance of biomarker testing in GIST\, the process of biomarker testing\, how to get testing done for free through the LRG\, and more. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\n \nDr. Calvin Chao\nSenior Vice President of Medical Affairs\, Tempus \nPreviously\, Dr. Chao spent thirteen years leading studies and education for the Oncotype DX Breast\, Prostate\, and Colon Cancer assays at Genomic Health\, later acquired by Exact Sciences.  Prior to that role\, he worked in various bio-pharmaceutical medical director positions at Onyx Pharmaceuticals\, PDL BioPharma\, TAP Pharmaceuticals\, and SmithKline Beecham. \nIn his early career\, Dr. Chao practiced as a board-certified internist and hospitalist at Kaiser Permanente in California for ten years. He earned his MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch\, completed his medical residency at Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Denver\, Colorado\, received his MBA from St. Mary’s College\, California\, and his BS in Chemical Engineering from University of California\, Berkeley. \n \nMichelle Harris\nSenior Director Medical Affairs\, Tempus AI \nMichelle has worked in the oncology space for almost 20 years in research\, development and medical affairs.  She has been at Tempus AI for 2&1/2 years leading the field medical liaison team\, who work with physicians on research and education.  Prior to Tempus\, Michelle worked in solid tumor drug development and clinical trials at Novartis and Gilead Sciences. \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/know-your-mutation/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20241009T185745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241024T145922Z
UID:10000793-1730905200-1730912400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GDOL North Carolina Virtual
DESCRIPTION:GDOL North Carolina is being held virtually Nov 6th\, 3-5 pm ET at Chapel Hill\, North Carolina. \nREGISTERWhat is a GDOL? \nA GDOL is a GIST Day of Learning. This is a free one day event to help patients and caregivers learn more about this rare cancer\, find support\, and enhance their knowledge base to help them navigate their cancer journey. \nThe 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. Our vision is to empower a future fueled by data\, guiding our journey toward cures for rare diseases. \nIf you have any questions\, please contact Brian Morello at bmorello@liferaftgroup.org \nClick Image for a PDF of the Agenda\n \nThank you to our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gdol-north-carolina-virtual-2/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ORGANIZER;CN="Brian Morello":MAILTO:bmorello@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241125T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241125T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20241009T202805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241120T145456Z
UID:10000795-1732536000-1732536000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Updates from CTOS
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Thierry Alcindor of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to present “GIST Updates from CTOS 2024” to GIST patients and caregivers on November 25th at 12pm ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Alcindor will discuss scientific updates relevant to GIST patients that were exhibited at the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) conference. A Q&A segment followed Dr. Alcindor’s presentation. \n\nPlease email srothschild@liferaftgroup.org to submit a question ahead of the presentation.  \n\n\n\nPlease note that this webinar is not a substitute for your physician’s guidance and care.\nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Thierry Alcindor\nDana-Farber Cancer Institute \nDr. Alcindor earned his medical degree at the State University of Haiti and a Master of Science degree at the University of Oxford. He trained in Internal Medicine and Hematology/Oncology at Yale-New Haven Medical Center and Tufts-New England Medical Center\, respectively. Previously at McGill University\, he is now a Senior Physician and medical oncologist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute\, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. His interests cover treatment and investigation of sarcomas\, including gastro-intestinal stromal tumors (GIST). \nThank you to our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/updates-from-ctos/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250108T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250108T143000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20241202T195947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241202T201549Z
UID:10000808-1736346600-1736346600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Exploring The SARC044 Trial
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group invites you to “Exploring The SARC044 Trial: Key Details & What The GIST Community Can Gain From The Study” on January 8th\, 2024 at 2:30PM ET. Dr. Candace Haddox\, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute\, will present an overview of the Phase II SARC044 Clinical Trial. This currently recruiting study tests the investigational use of bezuclastinib in combination with sunitinib in patients with GIST. Webinar participants will learn about the SARC044 study\, including eligibility\, site locations\, and study rationale. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Candace Haddox\nDana-Farber Cancer Institute \nDr. Candace Haddox is an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School\, and a medical oncologist and clinical/translational investigator in the Sarcoma Center and the Center for Cancer Therapeutic Innovation at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Haddox’s research focuses on developing novel therapies rooted in sarcoma biology and determining mechanisms of treatment response and resistance\, particularly in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). \nDr. Haddox received her Bachelor of Science in neurobiology from the University of Miami. She completed a post-baccalaureate research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health and received her Medical Degree from the University of South Florida. Dr. Haddox completed a residency in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester\, Minnesota\, and a fellowship in Medical Oncology at Duke University\, where she also served as Chief Fellow. She joined the faculty at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2021\, where she currently sees patients with sarcomas and leads clinical trials in early drug development.
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/exploring-the-sarc044-trial/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://liferaftgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SARC-Webinar.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T160000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20250310T190321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T190321Z
UID:10000810-1740758400-1740758400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Enfermedades raras - "El fin de la odisea diagnóstica"
DESCRIPTION:Alianza GIST y Fundación GIST México te invitan a su próximo webinar en conmemoración del Día Mundial de las Enfermedades Raras. Un espacio para profesionales de la salud. Tu participación es clave. \n\nREGISTER
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/enfermedades-raras-el-fin-de-la-odisea-diagnostica/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250301T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250301T080000
DTSTAMP:20260406T094315
CREATED:20250117T194503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T185821Z
UID:10000809-1740816000-1740816000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Summit 2025 / GDOL Texas
DESCRIPTION:MD Anderson Cancer Center\, GIST Support International and The Life Raft Group are co-hosting GIST Summit 2025 for  GIST patients and caregivers in Houston\, Texas in March  to showcase recent developments in GIST treatments and therapies. \n\n \n\n \n\n \nREGISTERDr. Neeta Somaiah and Dr. Jonathan Trent\, in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center\, GIST Support International (GSI) and The Life Raft Group (LRG) are pleased to invite you to the 2025 GIST Summit and Day of Learning to be held on Saturday\, March 1\, at MD Anderson Cancer Prevention Center in Houston\, TX. \nThis free-of-charge Summit is being sponsored through educational and other grants and gifts from pharmaceutical companies and individual donors. The program will include numerous presentations on the current state of GIST as well as future treatments and one-on-one conversations with the experts. All meals\, refreshments\, and parking will be provided. \nPlease join our communuty of GIST patients and caregivers for these relevant and informative talks\, meet with old friends and new\, and catch up on the latest science. Previous GIST Summits and GIST Days of Learning have been great successes\, and this year’s program is exciting as ever. Where else can you discuss GIST issues with the experts and ask questions you always wanted to ask? You will also have time to meet with other GIST patients and caregivers and to share experiences. \nProposed Agenda is below; subject to changes & additions. \nHave questions? Contact Brian Morello: bmorello@liferaftgroup.org \nLink to Agenda PDF \nThank You To Our Sponsors 
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gist-summit-2025-gdol-texas/
LOCATION:MD Anderson Cancer Prevention Center\, 1155 Pressler Street 8th Floor\, Houston\, TX\, 77030\, United States
CATEGORIES:Education,Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://liferaftgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GIST-Summit-Banner-w-frame.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Brian Morello":MAILTO:bmorello@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR