LIVIA'S BOOKLET

  Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) is a rare cancer that affects the digestive system. It starts in the walls of the digestive tract, often in the stomach or small intestine. GIST can be challenging to diagnose, as symptoms may be vague or similar to other conditions. “Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for patients with GIST. Awareness and education are key to promoting better understanding and care for those affected by this rare cancer.” I am a warrior, with a scarred heart A fighter against GIST, a brand new start I've faced the darkness, I've seen the light I've fought to live, through the darkest night The tumor's grip, it tried to hold But I refused, to let it unfold I chose to fight, I chose to rise To beat the odds, to open my eyes The treatments raged, like a stormy sea But I anchored down, in hope and glee I held on tight, to every thread Of life, of love, of every breath But GIST awareness, it's still...

  Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the digestive tract, most commonly in the stomach or small intestine. It originates from specialized cells called interstitial cells of Cajal or their precursors. GIST can vary in severity, from small, benign tumors to large, malignant ones. Symptoms may include: - Abdominal pain or discomfort - Bleeding in the digestive tract - Feeling full quickly while eating - Nausea and vomiting Treatment options depend on the size, location, and aggressiveness of the tumor, and may include: - Surgery to remove the tumor - Targeted therapy with medications like tyrosine kinase inhibitors - Clinical trials for new treatments Awareness and early detection are crucial for improving outcomes for patients with GIST. “Let’s Raise GIST Awareness together.” In the shadows, a war is fought A battle against GIST, a rare and silent thought A tumor grows, unseen and slow A threat to life, that few may know ...

  In a world that's loud, we often hide Our true selves, our struggles, our inner tide We're afraid to speak, to be ourselves Lest we're rejected, or judged by others' wealth But silence is a prison, that holds us tight A weight that presses, day and endless night It's time to break free, to shatter the glass To speak our truth, and let our voices pass Talk to us, and hear our story Of struggles, of pain, of victory We'll share our journey, our fears, our might And together, we'll shine with new light Our words, like bridges, will connect and bind Us together, in a bond of mind Let's talk, let's listen, let's be brave For in our words, our hearts will crave

  In silence, I suffer, alone and afraid My thoughts and feelings, locked deep within my shade The weight of my struggles, a burden I bear A heavy heart, that longs to share But fear of judgment, holds me back Afraid to speak, lest I am attacked My words, like stones, thrown into the night Hoping someone, will hear my plight My mental health, a fragile thread Easily broken, but also mended ahead For in my words, my heart will find peace - I hope