This site is exclusively about gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma. Life Raft Group is an international support organization for people with GIST. Here you will find an overview of GIST and information about the genetics of this type of cancer, and its diagnosis and treatment. Treatment information includes details of the targeted cancer drug, Gleevec, as well as other drugs, such as Sutent, and drug combinations currently in clinical trials. There are FAQ's available in 18 different languages. You can talk to an expert by calling 973-837-9092 or email questions to liferaft@liferaftgroup.org. You can also subscribe to the LRG Newsletter, and watch GIST-related Webcasts (videos that you can watch on your computer or mobile device) about recent GIST developments. There is also an international directory of GIST specialists.
The Sarcoma Alliance's mission is to offer guidance, education and support to sarcoma patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones. Here you will find an overview of sarcoma, including descriptions of the various subtypes of the disease. There are also links to information about pediatric sarcomas and a list of centers that are well-known for treating both pediatric and adult sarcoma patients. The site includes an online discussion board, as well as the Peer to Peer Network, which matches patients, caregivers, and survivors with other members of the network so that they can communicate directly with each other, under terms agreed upon by both. The Alliances' Hand in Hand program provides financial help to patients interested in seeking a second opinion about their diagnosis and treatment. This financial assistance must be used to reimburse expenses related to travel, phone bills, costs of the evaluation, and related charges.
Here you will find information from the National Cancer Institute about soft tissue sarcomas, with separate sections devoted to adult and pediatric sarcomas. There is a brief explanation of the stages of disease and limited treatment information. Information is presented in two formats -- for patients and for health professionals -- and the site indicates when information was last updated. You can also search to find clinical trials involving patients with soft tissue sarcoma. Information is also available in Spanish.
