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:
PATIENT
Leverage patient perspective to drive innovative solutions in cancer research.
POWERED
Educate and empower patients to take a larger role in their care.
SCIENCE
Accelerate research outcomes through collaborative efforts.
FOR LIFE
Increase access to effective treatments worldwide.
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
Did you know that GIST is actually a family of cancers? Learn more about the science of GIST.
Dr. Monica Anderson
Diagnosed in 2012 with Adult GIST.
Bella Rocco
Diagnosed in 2009 with Pediatric
(SDH-deficient) GIST.
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
In Memoriam – Dr. Nikhil Guhagarkar
Dr. Nikhil Guhagarkar found opportunities to balance life as a father, husband, medical professional, patient advocate and cancer survivor.
How Can B12 Help GIST Patients?
Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by GIST patients. Many factors may cause or contribute to lethargy, such as insomnia, malnutrition, iron deficiency to name a few, but a vitamin B12 deficiency in particular could be the root of the issue for some GIST sufferers.
Highlighting Exceptional Professionals in the Sarcoma Field
The Life Raft Group has developed the Women in Sarcoma program in recognition of the many women sarcoma specialists that engage with our organization and our patient and caregiver community.
GIST & Creativity – Jacqui Bartlett, Photographer & GISTer
Artistic expression is an important psychosocial activity. In this two-part series, these GISTers - professional and amateur creatives, share their stories. This is Jacqui Bartlett's story.
Australian GISTers Volunteer as LRG Country Liaisons
The LRG is pleased to welcome Shari Reid and Dr. Amy Kenworthy as country liaisons supporting GIST patients in Australia.
A Blessing from GIST – Super Max & Bryce
Professor Amy Kenworthy's GIST journey includes inspiring her son Bryce to help children in treatment for cancer. Bryce, at nine years old, decided to take action and created a project in 2016 called Super Max & Bryce.
Caregiver of the Month for November: Stephanie De Jong
Each member has a unique story, but all reflect the intrinsic courage of one facing the challenge of GIST. Stephanie De Jong shares her story.
GIST & Creativity – Ellen Mayer, Painter and GISTer
Artistic expression is an important psychosocial activity. In this two-part series, these GISTers - professional and amateur creatives, share their stories. In this post, painter, graphic designer & photographer, Ellen Mayer of NJ shares about her journey with GIST and creativity.
GLOBAL PARTNERS & AFFILIATIONS
