BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//The Life Raft Group - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:The Life Raft Group
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://liferaftgroup.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Life Raft Group
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20230312T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20231105T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20240310T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20241103T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240819T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
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:20260404T040142
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:20241007T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241007T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
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;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
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:20241125T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241125T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
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:20260404T040142
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:20250328T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250304T170959Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T171332Z
UID:10000811-1743174000-1743174000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Nutrition After GIST Surgery
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with María Camila Gomez\, GIST Patient Advocate and Nutrition student\, to present “Nutrition After GIST Surgery” on March 28 at 3PM ET. Ms. Gomez will address nutrition needs after a total or partial gastrectomy\, blending her personal experience as a patient with what she has learned over the past three years of studying nutrition. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. \nThis webinar will be available on our YouTube channel—subscribe for updates on new GIST education videos. These webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nMaría Camila Gómez\nGIST Advocate & Nutrition Student \nMaría Camila Gomez has been a GIST patient since the age of 16 and is currently a sixth-semester Nutrition and Dietetics student. Five years ago\, after undergoing a total gastrectomy\, she recognized the vital role of nutrition in overall health. This realization led her to pursue studies in nutrition\, both to better understand her new reality and to support others facing similar challenges. In addition to her academic journey\, María Camila creates social media content to raise awareness about life without a stomach and the importance of adapted nutrition. \nThank You to Our Webinar Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/nutrition-after-gist-surgery/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250304T170951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T171401Z
UID:10000812-1743177600-1743177600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Nutrición después de la cirugía de GIST
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group se ha asociado con María Camila Gómez\, paciente y defensora de GIST\, así como estudiante de Nutrición\, para presentar “Nutrición después de la cirugía de GIST” el 28 de marzo a las 4 PM ET. En esta presentación\, María Camila abordará la nutrición después de una gastrectomía total o parcial\, combinando su experiencia personal como paciente con los conocimientos adquiridos durante sus últimos tres años de estudio en nutrición. Al finalizar la presentación\, habrá una sesión de preguntas y respuestas. Si tiene preguntas o comentarios\, póngase en contacto con srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTRATEBiografía de la Ponente:\n \nMaría Camila Gómez\nDefensora GIST & Estudiante de Nutrición \nMaría Camila Gómez ha sido paciente de GIST desde los 16 años y actualmente es estudiante de sexto semestre de Nutrición y Dietética. Hace cinco años\, tras someterse a una gastrectomía total\, reconoció el papel fundamental de la nutrición en la salud. Esta experiencia la llevó a estudiar nutrición\, tanto para comprender mejor su nueva realidad como para apoyar a otras personas que enfrentan desafíos similares. Además de su formación académica\, María Camila crea contenido en redes sociales para generar conciencia sobre la vida sin estómago y la importancia de una nutrición adaptada. \nGracias a Nuestros Patrocinadores!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/nutricion-despues-de-la-cirugia-de-gist/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250506T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250506T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250402T184138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T184138Z
UID:10000817-1746540000-1746540000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:The Benefits of Palliative Care
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Grant Smith of Stanford Health Care to present “Live Your Best Life – The Benefits of Palliative Care” on May 6th at 2PM ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Smith will share ways to live your best life using a holistic\, person-centered approach. During this workshop\, Dr. Smith will talk about physical symptoms as well as emotional and spiritual well-being. You’ll also learn about the medical specialty\, called palliative care\, and how it can give you an extra level of support and improve your quality of life. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Grant Smith\nCare Physician & Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine \nGrant Smith\, MD is a palliative care physician and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the Stanford School of Medicine. He is the medical director of the Stanford Palliative Care Community Partnerships Team. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of California\, San Francisco. As part of the Stanford faculty\, he is an attending physician on the palliative care inpatient service and in the outpatient palliative care clinic in Palo Alto. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/benefits-of-palliative-care/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250506T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250506T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250402T184153Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T201911Z
UID:10000818-1746543600-1746543600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Los beneficios de los cuidados paliativos
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group\, junto con Olivia Tigre-Nerimora de Stanford Health Care\, presentará el webinar: “Vive tu vida al máximo: Los beneficios de los cuidados paliativos”\, que se llevará a cabo el 6 de mayo a las 3 p. m. (hora del este). En esta sesión virtual\, la Sra. Tigre-Nerimora compartirá estrategias para vivir plenamente con un enfoque holístico y personalizado\, centrado en el bienestar integral. Además\, abordará aspectos clave como el manejo de síntomas físicos\, el bienestar emocional y el cuidado espiritual. También aprenderá sobre los cuidados paliativos y cómo esta especialidad médica puede brindarle apoyo para mejorar su calidad de vida. Al finalizar la presentación\, habrá una sesión de preguntas y respuestas.  \nEstos webinars son solo con fines informativos y no deben reemplazar el consejo médico profesional. Siempre consulte a su proveedor de atención médica antes de realizar cualquier cambio en su tratamiento o estilo de vida. Si tiene preguntas o comentarios\, por favor comuníquese con srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTRATEAcerca de Nuestra Presentadora\n \nOlivia Tigre-Nerimora\, MHA\nGerente de Proyectos\, Centro de Excelencia en Cuidados Paliativos \nOlivia Tigre Nerimora se desempeña actualmente como Gerente de Proyectos para el Centro de Excelencia en Cuidados Paliativos\, Olivia supervisa proyectos destinados a promover la educación y la concientización sobre los cuidados paliativos especializados. Sus esfuerzos enfatizan el aumento de la participación comunitaria\, particularmente entre las poblacionbes mas vulnerasbles\, para garantizar el acceso equitativo y la comprensión de los servicios de cuidados paliativos. \nGracias a Nuestros Patrocinadores!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/beneficios-de-los-cuidados-paliativos/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250513T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250513T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250331T190351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T180059Z
UID:10000816-1747137600-1747137600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Holistic Approaches to Healing
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Certified Wellness Coach & Patient Advocate Carolina Williams to present\, “Holistic Approaches to Healing in Harmony”\, on May 13th at 12PM ET. This virtual session will blend mindfulness practices with vibrational living to support cancer patients and their caregivers in navigating the emotional and energetic challenges of healing. Through guided meditations\, breathwork\, and energy-awareness techniques\, participants will learn how to cultivate inner peace\, resilience\, and a healing mindset. Discover how vibrational frequencies influence well-being\, how to shift energy for emotional balance\, and how to create a supportive environment that fosters deep healing for both patients and caregivers. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nCarolina Williams\nCertified Wellness Coach & Patient Advocate \nAfter facing Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST)\, Carolina experienced an instantaneous remission—a profound moment that reinforced the power of mindfulness\, energy healing\, and vibrational living. While her healing journey included deep spiritual work\, meditation\, and energy alignment\, she also acknowledges the role of Gleevec\, the targeted therapy that supported her recovery. This integrative approach—combining science and vibrational medicine—became the foundation of her work. \nNow a certified Wellness Coach\, Reiki Master\, and Bio-Well Energy Field Practitioner\, Carolina is passionate about guiding cancer patients and caregivers toward inner peace\, resilience\, and healing. She teaches practical tools that support both emotional and physical well-being\, helping others navigate their journeys with greater strength\, hope\, and balance. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/holistic-approaches-to-healing/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250504T172256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250504T172256Z
UID:10000821-1748091600-1748091600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST & Clinical Trials - LRG Canada
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/clinical-trials-lrg-canada/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="GIST Sarcoma Life Raft Group Canada":MAILTO:yvonne.nunnaro@liferaftgroup.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250619T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250619T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250513T131917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T204708Z
UID:10000823-1750359600-1750359600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Updates from ASCO 2025
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 partner with Herbert Loong\, who will summarize abstracts and presentations that were presented during this conference that are relevant to the GIST patient community. Join us June 19th at 7pm for this virtual presentation. A Q&A session will follow the presentation. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Herbert 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 Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/updates-asco-2025/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250630T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250630T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250516T163719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T151652Z
UID:10000825-1751284800-1751284800@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Navigating Financial Support & Medicare Changes
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Jennifer Noonan of Accessia Health to present “Navigating Financial Support & Medicare Changes: What Patients Need to Know in 2025” to our patient and caregiver community on June 30th at 12PM ET. During this virtual presentation\, Ms. Noonan will cover key updates including the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P)\, cost-sharing “smoothing\,” and how charitable financial assistance programs can support individuals navigating high out-of-pocket costs. Learn what these changes mean for patients and caregivers — and how to prepare for what’s ahead. A Q&A segment will follow Ms. Noonan’s presentation. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to rpauley@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenter\n \nJennifer Noonan\nAccessia Heath \nJennifer Noonan\, Vice President of Clinical Strategy & Patient Engagement at Accessia Health\, is a dedicated healthcare professional with 25+ years of clinical nursing experience. Her vast clinical management background spans diverse healthcare settings\, showcasing her expertise in program design and service delivery under rigorous regulations. Her career began in emergency medicine in Louisville\, KY\, where she spent 17 years in leadership roles and contributing to EMR clinical development and implementation. Transitioning into hospice and palliative care in 2014\, Jennifer excelled in leadership positions for both adult and pediatric patients. A resolute academic\, Jennifer holds degrees from Kentucky State University and Western Governors University. She was appointed to the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy’s Board of Directors in September 2023. Beyond work\, she is a family-oriented martial arts enthusiast\, hiker\, and avid traveler. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!\n 
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/navigating-financial-support/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Rebecca Pauley":MAILTO:rpauley@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250711T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250711T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250513T130002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T185244Z
UID:10000824-1752242400-1752242400@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:GIST Awareness Day Fireside Chat
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 11th at 2PM ET. During this virtual event\, esteemed GIST experts Dr. Sicklick of UCSD and Dr. Blakely and Dr. John Glod of the NIH will answer patient and caregiver questions in an informal chat. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to srothschild@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\n \nDr. Jason Sicklick\nUCSD\, Moores Cancer Center \nJason Sicklick\, MD\, is an internationally recognized surgical oncologist who specializes in treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)\, abdominal/retroperitoneal sarcomas\, and liver tumors.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. He 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. \n \nDr. Andrew Blakely\nNational Cancer Institute (NCI) \nDr. Blakely completed a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering followed by medical school at Drexel University. He went on to general surgery residency at Brown University. During residency\, he spent two years of dedicated research time at the Center for Biomedical Engineering developing a device for tissue engineering applications. Dr. Blakely then completed his fellowship in Complex General Surgical Oncology at City of Hope National Medical Center. Dr. Blakely is currently a surgical oncologist specializing in peritoneal surface malignancies and soft tissue sarcomas. One of the primary focuses of his research includes improving surgical treatment and ex vivo tumor modeling of gastrointestinal stromal tumors. \n \nDr. John Glod\nNational Cancer Institute (NCI) \nDr. Glod obtained his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in Denver and trained in pediatrics and pediatric oncology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital\, Johns Hopkins Hospital\, and the Pediatric Oncology Branch of the NCI.  Dr. Glod currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Pediatric Oncology Branch in the Center for Cancer Research at National Cancer Institute. Dr. Glod’s research interests are focused on early stage clinical trials for pediatric patients and rare pediatric solid tumors including multiple endocrine neoplasia-related medullary thyroid cancer\, SDH-deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumor\, and tumors of the central nervous system. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!\n 
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/gad-fireside-chat/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Sara Rothschild":MAILTO:srothschild@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250812T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250707T163827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T193754Z
UID:10000828-1755000000-1755000000@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Making Cents of Caregiving
DESCRIPTION:The Life Raft Group is partnering with Al Berg of the AARP NJ Speakers Bureau to present “Making Cents of Caregiving” on August 12\, at 12PM ET. In this informative and educational session\, you will be introduced to essential information caregivers need to more easily manage the financial complexities of caregiving. Over the course of the presentation\, you will learn how to incorporate financial tips and resources into your caregiving. By the end of the session\, we hope you have the confidence to make your own financial plans for your loved one’s care and well-being. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to rpauley@liferaftgroup.org. \nREGISTERAbout Our Presenters\n \nAl Berg\nAARP NJ Speakers Bureau \nAl Berg is a volunteer with the AARP NJ Speakers Bureau\, giving presentations on a variety of topics of interest to older Americans.  During the day\, Al heads up cybersecurity for a major entertainment company. When he is not fighting off hackers\, he is an EMT with the Weehawken Volunteer First Aid Squad and lives in Weehawken with his wife and a very spoiled cat. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!\n 
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/making-cents-of-caregiving/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Rebecca Pauley":MAILTO:rpauley@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251110T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251110T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20250721T171140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T155959Z
UID:10000846-1762783200-1762783200@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:ctDNA and the INSIGHT Study
DESCRIPTION:REGISTERThe Life Raft Group is partnering with Deciphera Pharmaceuticals and Dr. Jonathan Trent of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center to present “ctDNA and the INSIGHT Study” on November 10th at 2PM ET. During this virtual presentation\, Dr. Trent will explain how ctDNA works as a non-invasive method to monitor mutations and disease progression\, and how it may help personalize treatment strategies for GIST patients. \nDenisse Evans\, Sr. Director of Data Management & Research for the LRG\, will present the results and analysis of the LRG’s recent patient survey: Understanding Mutational and ctDNA Testing for patients in the U.S. She will highlight how patients currently access and understand testing\, key barriers to uptake\, and what these findings reveal about the real-world experiences of the GIST community. Denisse will also discuss how these insights can help shape future education\, advocacy\, and research efforts to ensure patients have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their care. \nA question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. If you have questions or comments\, please reach out to rpauley@liferaftgroup.org. \nAbout Our Presenters\n \nDr. Jonathan Trent\nSylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center \nJonathan Trent\, M.D.\, Ph.D. is a board‑certified oncologist\, professor of medicine\, and Associate Director for Clinical Research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center\, University of Miami Health System. He serves as the Director of the Bone and Soft-Tissue Sarcoma Group and leads the Sarcoma Medical Oncology program\, with a focus on gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST)\, chondrosarcoma\, synovial sarcoma\, and other rare sarcomas. \nDenisse Evans\, MS\nSenior Director\, Data Mgmt. & Research \nMs. Evans has a wealth of experience in clinical evaluation projects including development of protocols\, case report forms\, informed consent\, surveys\, tissue repositories\, and study initiation She is proficient in data management\, preparing research for publication\, drug development\, clinical trial protocols\, onco-pathological/genetical dissemination\, and formulating research premises. As the Senior Director of Data Management & Research\, Denisse is the principal investigator for study protocol design and strategy of Patient Reported Outcomes (PRO). She has expertise in the analysis\, reporting\, and dissemination of PRO data and present scientific work. \nShe leads a dedicated staff in both patient support and in the identification of data trends that may lead to actionable information that will help patients coping with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor. In addition\, she takes the lead in collaborative research initiatives\, including maintaining relationships with potential partners\, contributing ongoing data\, and supporting hypothesis generation with the goal of increasing patient survival and advancing GIST research. \nDenisse holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Rowan University\, and a Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University. \nThank You to Our Sponsor!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/ctdna-and-the-insight-study/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Rebecca Pauley":MAILTO:rpauley@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20251105T160426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T160426Z
UID:10000922-1764763200-1764763200@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Updates from CTOS 2025
DESCRIPTION:REGISTERThe CTOS Annual Meeting is the yearly conference of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society\, where global sarcoma experts share new research and clinical insights. The Life Raft Group is partnering with Dr. Pawel Sobczuk of Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology to present “GIST Updates from CTOS 2025” on December 3rd at 12 PM ET. During this virtual session\, Dr. Sobczuk will highlight key GIST-relevant findings presented at CTOS\, followed by a Q&A with attendees. \nAbout Our Presenter\n \nDr. Pawel Sobczuk\nVall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology\, Barcelona\, Spain \nPawel Sobczuk is a Polish medical oncologist and clinician-scientist with expertise in sarcoma and skin tumours. He currently works as a postdoctoral fellow at the Sarcoma Translational Research Group at Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology in Barcelona\, Spain. He is a Board member of the Polish Society of Clinical Oncology. Dr. Sobczuk is a member of the ESMO Young Oncologists Committee and ESMO Communication Committee.\nDr. Sobczuk completed his medical degree at the Medical University of Warsaw. Following his medical studies\, he undertook a residency in Medical Oncology at Maria-Sklodowska Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw\, where he also completed his PhD in medical sciences in 2023. He has completed a scientific fellowship at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.\nHis research primarily focuses on translational studies in sarcoma\, with a primary interest in response to immunotherapy and novel mechanisms of resistance to kinase inhibitors in GIST. Dr Sobczuk is a co-principal investigator of the EFTISARC-NEO clinical trial evaluating a novel immunotherapy combination in the neoadjuvant treatment of patients with soft tissue sarcoma. He has published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles in indexed journals and presented results in numerous international meetings. He serves as a member of the editorial board of renewed journals such as JCO Precision Oncology and Cancer Control. \nThank You to Our Sponsors!
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/updates-from-ctos-2025/
CATEGORIES:Education,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Rebecca Pauley":MAILTO:rpauley@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260413T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260413T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T040142
CREATED:20260324T133307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T130245Z
UID:10001637-1776081600-1776081600@liferaftgroup.org
SUMMARY:Long-Term Survivor Webinar
DESCRIPTION:REGISTERHosted by the The Life Raft Group\, “What We Wish We’d Known: Advice from Long-Term GIST Survivors” will take place on April 13 at 12 PM ET and features long-term survivors and mentors Kay Stolzer\, Dr. John Abrams\, Martha Smart\, and Piga Fernández. They’ll share what to do after a GIST diagnosis\, common mistakes to avoid\, and what it’s really like to live with cancer long-term. Join us for practical advice\, honest insights\, and support from people who have been there. \nThese webinars are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any treatment or lifestyle changes. \nAbout Our Presenters:\n \nDr. John Abrams \nJohn Abrams has been involved with The Life Raft Group for over eight years and is the state leader for Colorado. He serves as a LRG Board Member and GIST mentor. He practiced dentistry for 35 years with an area of expertise in adult restorative dentistry highlighting esthetic restorations. He was honored by his peers as a Colorado 5280 Top Dentist. John retired from dentistry due to the side effects of Gleevec. In his “retirement” he is an equity partner in real estate investment and serves as a consultant for dental offices focusing on management and clinical skills. \nJohn grew up in St. Louis and has lived in Colorado since 1975. He graduated from Miami University (Oxford Ohio) and the University of Missouri School of Dentistry. \nAs a long time GISTer and survivor of two other primary cancers\, John hopes his story can be at least some inspiration to others on their own journey. \n \nPiga Fernández \nAs a GIST patient who was diagnosed incorrectly in 1995 with leiomyosarcoma\, Piga Fernández understands the importance of correct diagnosis and access to treatment. Piga serves as a GIST Mentor and Global Relations Consultant for The Life Raft Group. \nIn 2001\, she founded and is the Executive Director of Fundación GIST Chile\, a nonprofit organization dedicated to support GIST and other gastrointestinal patients through education\, information\, emotional support and advocacy\, with the goal of having them experience a better quality of life. \nAdditionally\, she is the Coordinator of Alianza GIST\, a consortium of GIST groups in Latin America. Her advocacy efforts in Chile have led to important changes in her country\, impacting both legislative change and raising awareness for rare diseases. \n \nMartha Smart \nMartha Smart is a 19-year survivor of high-risk small bowel GIST (12 cm\, Exon 11) and has been on Gleevec since her diagnosis in 2007. A former speech pathologist based in Midland\, Texas\, she is a proud mom\, grandmother (“NeeNee”)\, dog mom\, and devoted wife of over 53 years. \nHer diagnosis came as a complete shock following emergency surgery\, prompting her to take an active role in her care and seek treatment at MD Anderson. Since then\, she has taken more than 27\,000 Gleevec tablets and become deeply connected to the GIST community through The Life Raft Group and other networks. \nWith humor\, resilience\, and compassion\, she is passionate about sharing her experience to support and guide others living with GIST. \n \nKay Stolzer \nKay Stolzer joined the LRG Board in March 2021 and was elected to the role of Secretary/Treasurer in March 2022. \nShe has been a very active volunteer in our LRG community. Kay is one of the original 8 GIST Mentors\, a program that has grown to 32 global mentors\, and has mentored over 220 patients and caregivers\, since its inception in 2019. \nIn Kay’s earlier life\, she was an administrator for a large physicians’ group. When her children were born\, she transitioned to full time homemaker\, and was a very active volunteer in her community\, in various roles and organizations. Kay enjoys spending time with her husband\, Ira\, and visiting their children and grandchildren in New Jersey and Tennessee. \nThank You to Our Sponsors:
URL:https://liferaftgroup.org/event/long-term-survivor-webinar/
CATEGORIES:Education,Events,Webcast
ORGANIZER;CN="Rebecca Pauley":MAILTO:rpauley@liferaftgroup.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR