Hi Kathy, My name is Cindi. I also had surgery in June to remove a tumor in my esophagus. I live in Cols., Oh and had surgery in Cols. I was then told I had GIST and was sent to the Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, Oh. It's now October and I am still undergoing tests, and the dr. is considering another surgery and also Gleevec. I am 43 yrs old and was told that this type of cancer is uncommom in females and normally attacks men over 54. Where is your Mother being treated? Have you ever heard of Cancer Treatment Centers of America? I am now consulting with them regarding GIST. I also feel like I am getting the run around and I think it's because it's a uncommon cancer.