The 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.
Other Programs Supported by The Life Raft Group:
Real World Evidence In Action
Traditional models for cancer research have resulted in many breakthrough treatments for patients, but it is not enough. The LRG’s approach to GIST research through real world evidence, relies on timely, accurate data from the patient’s perspective, with patient survival as the primary objective.
RECENT LRG DATA
Update your Patient Registry Info.
Join The Life Raft Group.
Current GIST Clinical Trials.
Search the GIST Specialist Database.
HELP US SAVE LIVES
The Life Raft Group is a community and it is up to all of us to make a difference. There are many ways to help. We always need patient tissue and data in our GIST patient registry. Volunteering your time or making a monetary donation also helps us drive research forward and save lives.
News
What are Clinical Trials & How Do You Find Them?
Clinical trials are scientific research studies done in humans that help us to understand whether a new treatment is safe and effective in treating an illness, such as cancer.
Patient of the Month – January 2024: Beatrice Bradford
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Beatrice Bradford shares her story. #thrivingtogether
New Clinical Trials Focus for the LRG in 2024
Starting in January, every Wednesday will be dedicated learning about clinical trial process and to highlighting the groundbreaking clinical trials focused on gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST).
Lessons in Thriving with GIST
Australian liaison Donncha Lynch didn’t know much about GIST or The Life Raft Group yet, but he was determined to learn all he could about GIST.
The LRG Impacts GIST Research
Thriving Together also means impacting GIST research for our patient community. The LRG contributes and collaborates in the research arena in many ways.
Thriving Together Holiday Campaign Update – Personal Fundraisers
This fall two GIST advocates answered the call to fundraise and rallied their 'crews' - designing and hosting incredibly successful fundraisers.
GIST Updates from CTOS
During this virtual presentation, Dr. Loong discussed scientific updates relevant to GIST patients that were exhibited at the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) conference. A Q&A segment followed Dr. Loong’s presentation.
Night to Fight Cancer 2023 Photo Gallery
Our 20th Annual Night to Fight Cancer (NTFC) fundraiser was held at Midtown Loft & Terrace in NYC on October 19, 2023. View the photo gallery here.


























