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
Time To Tell The Stories – Donald Prestage
The Life Raft Group is celebrating our 20th anniversary as a nonprofit in 2022. Our Time to Tell the Stories features honor this legacy. GISTer Donald Prestage shares his story.
Patient of the Month for May: James
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. It's Time to Tell the Stories! James shares his story.
Living My Best Creative Life with GIST – Ellen Mayer
As part of our Time to Tell the Stories Campaign, GISTer Ellen Mayer shares her art.
A Caregiver’s Insights on GIST Care – Erawati Bawle
Erawati Bawle shares her insights on her husband's journey with GIST and reflects on the quality of medical care he received and a clinician's responsibility for their patients with the hope that it will give others clarity for their journey.
Caregiver of the Month for March: Thanatcha Cholpradit
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. It's Time to Tell the Stories! Thanatcha Cholpradit shares her story.
What It Means To Be A GIST Mentor
US GIST Mentor Director, Santy DiSabatino, shares what having a Mentor means to the newly diagnosed and what being a GIST Mentor means to him and he makes an appeal for more volunteers to mentor LRG patients and caregivers.
