Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder (PTLD) is a rare cancer related to organ and stem cell transplants, as well as Epstein bar disease. There is no nonprofit organization dedicated to this community and the last known gathering involved less than a dozen patients and caregivers, pre-pandemic. When NORD learned of interest… Read More
Mark Laabs is the Founder and Chairman of the Rare Cancer Research Foundation (RCRF). He shares a passion for driving research infrastructure with diversity, equity, and inclusion for rare cancer patients.
What motivated you to start RCRF?
I am a rare cancer survivor, and I was diagnosed with… Read More
Once, I was an intelligent, well-traveled and active African American entrepreneur in my middle 40’s who had opportunities to do wonderful things in the world. My passion was to help disabled people of all ages improve their lives. I was fortunate enough to be an icon as the first woman in technology to educate thousands of individuals in university and Fortune corporations, as well as offering my expertise in state, federal and international consulting.
Further aspirations ended when I was diagnosed with stage IV Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) pelvic bone cancer and given 3-6 months to live. I am… Read More
I was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 2007 as a 21-year-old new mother. When the doctor told me I had peritoneal mesothelioma, I didn’t know what it was. I was overwhelmed with shock and confusion with so many questions about this rare disease and how little information seemed available. Mostly, I felt alone. Feeling alone… Read More
I was a healthy 27-year-old with no underlying risk factors when I was diagnosed with appendix cancer.
One evening, I started cramping in my abdomen. I thought nothing of it until the intensity increased and I could barely sit upright or walk. I called my primary care provider and she recommended I go to the emergency room,… Read More
