Our members embody the meaning of courage, which according to the Merriam Webster dictionary is “The mental or moral strength to venture, persevere and withstand danger, fear or difficulty.”
Each member story is unique, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of those who face the challenges of cancer head on, with dignity, strength and passion for life.
Take a moment to listen to their voices.
Be amazed by what real courage looks like.
Dr. Monica Anderson
Diagnosed in 2012 with Adult GIST.
Marc Wasserman
Diagnosed in 2006 with Adult GIST.
Bella Rocco
Diagnosed in 2009 with Pediatric
(SDH-Deficient) GIST.
Member Stories are below.
If you would like to contribute your story, or, that of a loved one, please email us today. Feel free to include any images you would like us to use!
Also visit our In Memoriam section and our In Memoriam website to light a candle for love ones that have passed.
Member Stories
Patient of the Month for May: Pamela Trovato Nau
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Pamela Trovato Nau shares her story.
Caregiver of the Month for April: Vicenta Salinas
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Vicenta Salinas shares her story.
Patient of the Month for March: Kamel Ahmed
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Kamel Ahmed shares his story.
April Stephens, Long-Term Survivor
The average GIST patient is in their 50s or older when diagnosed with GIST. The rare exception is usually a pediatric SDH- deficient GIST, but April’s case is a case of ‘the rarest of the rare’ in that she was only 20 years old when she first encountered GIST and was not SDH-deficient.
Caregiver of the Month for February: Bonita Morgan
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Bonita Morgan shares her story.
Patient of the Month for January: John Abrams
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. John Abrams shares his story.