July 2007
- Looking for kinase mutations in GISTs by Chris Corless, M.D. The significance of mutations in the KIT and PDGFRA genes in the development and growth of GI stromal sarcomas (GISTs) is a topic that has been thoroughly discussed in the pages of this newsletter in an article by my colleague, Dr. Heinrich and in articles by other experts in the field. The Life Raft Group’s Science Coordinator, Jerry Call, has also made significant contributions on this topic.
- Once a teacher, always a teacher by Erin Kristoff Becky Harper always knew she wanted to be a teacher. “I think you have to be called to it. You have to have a passion to be with kids, and you do a lot of giving.” And she did give—22 years to be exact. She taught every first grader who came through her class until 1996 when she was told she had cancer.
- A stitch in time: life with GIST can still exist by Hollie Ontrop Time. It was something I never worried about. Really. I didn’t even think about it. I always assumed I had so much of it and I could spend it at my own leisure. I saw no point in settling, rushing down the aisle or starting a family. I had plenty of time to do those kinds of things, later.
- July 2007 clinical trial update by Jim Hughes