Synovial Sarcoma Foundation Hosts Second Community Webinar Highlighting Research Momentum
On February 19, 2026, the Synovial Sarcoma Foundation brought together patients, families, clinicians, and researchers from around the world for its second community webinar—an evening focused on progress, partnership, and hope.
The full webinar recording is available to watch below:
The webinar was moderated by Nathan Imperiale, Chairman of the Board, and featured:
- Chas Spence, Executive Director & Founder of the Synovial Sarcoma Foundation
- Julie Kramer, Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager and 9-year synovial sarcoma survivor
- Dr. Ted Laetsch, Pediatric Oncologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Director of the Developmental Therapeutics and Very Rare Malignant Tumors Programs, and leader of the National Synovial Sarcoma Tumor Board
- Dr. Rachel Hurley, Physician-Scientist at CHOP and the University of Pennsylvania, leading translational synovial sarcoma research
Highlights
Foundation leadership shared updates on a comprehensive research landscape audit designed to identify global gaps and accelerate coordinated progress. Dr. Laetsch highlighted continued growth of the National Synovial Sarcoma Tumor Board, the expanding Registry & Biorepository, CTOS research presentations, and the upcoming pediatric expansion of the TumorGlow® surgical trial.
Dr. Hurley discussed emerging genomic insights, tumor microenvironment research, and efforts to better understand recurrence and treatment resistance—work powered by patient participation.
A powerful moment of the webinar came from Julie Kramer, who shared her journey from a stage IV diagnosis at age 23 to nine years with no evidence of disease. Her reflections on resilience, uncertainty, and survivorship underscored the human side of scientific progress.
Together, we move closer to better treatments—and ultimately, a cure.
For more information about synovial sarcoma resources and support, please visit our website.
