April 2012

Colombian GISTers meet in-person for first time in Bogota

On February 28 the first meeting of Columbian GIST patients was held in Bogotá at the Hotel Dann Carlton. GISTers came from all over, including Bogotá, Cali, Pereira, Neiva, Barrancabermeja, Girardot, Cúcuta.

Although we completed the planned program, we were short on time since there were many stories to tell and experiences to share. The presentation by Dr. Jesus Insuasty on understanding GIST was magnificent and gave clarity about the disease.

Meeting attendees pause for a picture at the first gathering of Colombia GISTers.

The testimony of Dr. Rafael Vega, who is both a physician and patient, showed us a different view of our disease. It combined the scientific, medical, and theoretical sides of the disease with the real experience of a patient in a way that showed not only what GIST is but what one faces when living with GIST and its treatments.

Rafael Becerra’s testimony was focused on the GIST patient. He spoke about how to live with the disease and its treatment options, the positive attitude we should take when living with GIST, and giving thanks to our family and friends, who truly share your trials and tribulations in dealing with GIST. Vicky Ossio of Bolivia and Life Raft Group representative for Latin America made us see the importance of uniting in patientsupport groups. She shared her LRG story with the group, discussing how she found the LRG after her daughter’s GIST diagnosis and through the LRG, Colombian GIST survivors and caregivers listen to a doctor’s presentation at Hotel Dann Carlton in Bogotá. which today has over 1,000 members in the United States, she researched the best treatment option for her daughter. The LRG currently supports ten investigators aimed at finding a cure for GIST.

Thanks to Dr. Rafael Vega, what began as a chat and flight of fancy crystallized into a dream come true. Thanks to everyone who helped us hold this first meeting of GIST patients in Colombia, and special thanks to the participants, Vicky, Helen Luz, Consuelo, Maria Helena, Fanny, Maria Consuelo, Socorro, Maria Enit, Vilma, Lilia Simón, Jorge, Luis, Miguel, Rafael, Jesús and especially Johana who, at 22 years old, is the youngest patient in our group. I apologize for any names I may have omitted. Thank you all.

It was the first step and was a success. Now keep going forward, Colombian GISTers!