Life Fest 2010

I will be attending-through music-the Friday night gala of Life Fest GIST 2010:A Decade of Difference sponsored by the Life Raft group-an organization dedicated to helping those of us with GIST.
This rare disease that I have called GIST has only been around for 10 years. But what a difference 10 years can make. I am inspired by Tania Stutman, founder of the GIST Cancer Research Fund, who upon learning that she had this rare disease over 10 years ago-went door to door -by herself-soliciting donations that she gave to cancer researchers to figure out what GIST actually was.
On their website-it states that they have given away $1 Million to GIST cancer researchers to find a cure-that's totally awesome!
I am inspired by the folks at Life Raft who have organized this event called Life Fest, bringing together fellow GISTers, doctors, and researchers to educate and illuminate all of us about the recent medications, trials and what's next.
Both groups work tirelessly with doctors, researchers and GISTers towards understanding the disease, promoting and funding new research, networking with GISTers to find the right doctor, the right medication, testing and sometimes just a time to talk.
Without both of these groups-I would be completely lost-so I am extremely grateful to their hard work and dedication to helping all of us who have GIST.