Robert Kirschman, a Meadow Lake, Sask., man, is raising funds and awareness for his rare incurable cancer diagnosis. After being diagnosed with a gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) two years ago, Kirschman underwent surgery to remove a large tumour from his abdomen. Despite initially feeling optimistic after the surgery, in November 2023, doctors found multiple spots on his liver, indicating that the cancer had metastasized and was no longer curable. Kirschman sought help from Life Raft Group Canada, which provided him with support and helped him enroll in a drug trial program in Calgary to control his cancer.
As a way to raise awareness and funds for Life Raft Group Canada, Kirschman is training for a 70.3 Ironman event in Florida in December. This event includes a 1.9-kilometre swim, a 91-kilometre bike ride, and a half marathon. Kirschman, who has been part of triathlons in the past, believes that participating in this event will help both raise awareness for his rare condition and generate funds for the organization that has supported him. Despite dealing with side effects from his treatment, Kirschman has been documenting his training progress on social media to garner support and donations for his cause.
Kirschman’s efforts have already exceeded his initial fundraising goal of $4,000, prompting him to raise the bar to $7,500. In addition to the Ironman event, Kirschman and his supporters are planning a bike ride in Waskesiu, Sask., to further raise funds for Life Raft Group Canada. David Josephy, president of the organization, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about GIST, as many people diagnosed with this rare form of cancer are often unaware of the disease and lack a support network. Josephy highlighted the organization’s focus on providing patient support, advocating for awareness, and supporting research efforts to improve treatments.
Josephy stressed the need to educate the general public about GIST and the challenges faced by those diagnosed with this rare cancer. He underscored the importance of every dollar raised going towards direct patient support and research initiatives. Kirschman’s dedication to training for the Ironman event and raising awareness for his condition demonstrates his commitment to helping others facing similar challenges. By sharing his journey on social media and organizing fundraising events, Kirschman is making a meaningful impact in the fight against GIST and supporting those affected by the disease.
In the face of his incurable cancer diagnosis, Kirschman remains determined to make a positive difference by advocating for awareness and raising funds for GIST research and patient support. His willingness to share his story, undergo treatment, and participate in challenging athletic events reflects his resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Kirschman’s efforts serve as an inspiration to others facing similar health challenges and showcase the power of community support in fighting rare diseases like GIST. Through his fundraising initiatives and advocacy work, Kirschman is creating a lasting legacy that will benefit those affected by GIST and contribute to ongoing research efforts to find better treatments for this rare form of cancer.
