May 2025 Newsletter

A Note From The Publisher
Blessing of the Marketplace – Monday, May 26, 11:30 a.m.
Resource and article by: Lori Leath Smith
The week begins with the Blessing of the Marketplace luncheon at Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer. Local clergy will offer prayers over business owners, first responders, civic leaders, and workers across all industries. The luncheon is free and open to the public, with food provided and a spirit of encouragement offered to all who attend.
Blessing of the Youth – Tuesday, May 27, 6 p.m.
Held at Destin United Methodist Church, this service lifts up local students, educators and youth ministries. The evening includes worship music, student testimonies and words of encouragement for the next generation.
Blessing of the Land – Wednesday, May 28, 6 p.m.
This outdoor event, hosted at Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Dugas Pavilion, honors farmers, builders and stewards of the land. Guests can enjoy live music and a message focused on restoration and growth.
Blessing of the Fleet – Thursday, May 29, beginning at 4 p.m.
Festivities begin at 4 p.m. with a Captain’s Testimony and Worship Service under the tent behind Brotula’s. At 5:15 p.m., boats of all sizes will line the harbor to receive blessings from local pastors as prayers are lifted for safety, abundance and calm seas in the season ahead. Immediately following the fleet blessing, all are invited to a community fish fry—an evening of fellowship, food, and music on the waterfront. Donations are welcome.
From bow to bowline and storefront to sanctuary, the Week of Blessings is a celebration of what binds Destin together: faith, family and an enduring love for the water. We celebrate our city’s deep spiritual roots and strong ties to the sea-- the Blessing of the Fleet remains a poignant reminder of the city’s origins and the enduring spirit of its fishing community.
_______________________________________________________________________
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 11,600+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2018 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
Blessing of the Marketplace – Monday, May 26, 11:30 a.m.
Resource and article by: Lori Leath Smith
The week begins with the Blessing of the Marketplace luncheon at Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer. Local clergy will offer prayers over business owners, first responders, civic leaders, and workers across all industries. The luncheon is free and open to the public, with food provided and a spirit of encouragement offered to all who attend.
Blessing of the Youth – Tuesday, May 27, 6 p.m.
Held at Destin United Methodist Church, this service lifts up local students, educators and youth ministries. The evening includes worship music, student testimonies and words of encouragement for the next generation.
Blessing of the Land – Wednesday, May 28, 6 p.m.
This outdoor event, hosted at Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Dugas Pavilion, honors farmers, builders and stewards of the land. Guests can enjoy live music and a message focused on restoration and growth.
Blessing of the Fleet – Thursday, May 29, beginning at 4 p.m.
Festivities begin at 4 p.m. with a Captain’s Testimony and Worship Service under the tent behind Brotula’s. At 5:15 p.m., boats of all sizes will line the harbor to receive blessings from local pastors as prayers are lifted for safety, abundance and calm seas in the season ahead. Immediately following the fleet blessing, all are invited to a community fish fry—an evening of fellowship, food, and music on the waterfront. Donations are welcome.
From bow to bowline and storefront to sanctuary, the Week of Blessings is a celebration of what binds Destin together: faith, family and an enduring love for the water. We celebrate our city’s deep spiritual roots and strong ties to the sea-- the Blessing of the Fleet remains a poignant reminder of the city’s origins and the enduring spirit of its fishing community.
_______________________________________________________________________
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 11,600+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2018 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
If you are interested in being a sponsor or article contributor, contact Patricia: [email protected]

Travel & Day Trips Around Florida
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html

Destin’s Deeper Purpose: More Than Just a Beach Town:
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Faith, Community and the Sea: Destin’s Week of Blessings Returns May 26–29
We all have our reasons for calling Destin home. Some come for the beauty, others for the lifestyle—but many of us feel we were drawn here for something greater. Yes, to the outside world Destin is now a beach destination. But long before the tourists and high-rises, this was a humble fishing town—a place where hard work met the sea, and faith anchored the community.
Known proudly as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” I believe Destin’s blessings go far beyond its natural beauty. Every year, we gather to bless our boats, our Harbor, our children, our leaders and our people. Could it be that this annual act of faith and unity brings favor to our city? That beneath the sparkle of our shoreline lies something even more powerful: a shared purpose and a spirit that keeps our little paradise thriving? Many Destin fisherman, locals and area professionals alike will tell you they believe their success rides on blessings.
Destin’s beloved Week of Blessings returns May 26–29, 2025. Organized by the Church of Destin, Inc., this cherished tradition brings together neighbors, businesses, fishermen and faith leaders for a heartfelt week of prayer, unity and gratitude that includes a series of faith-focused, family-oriented activities leading up to Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter, with the Blessing of the Fleet.
On Thursday, May 29, is the highlight of Destin’s Week of Blessings—the 68th Annual Blessing of the Fleet, Destin’s second oldest, annual tradition that pays homage to our city’s deep-rooted maritime heritage and is held behind Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer. (The oldest is our annual Fishing Rodeo first held in 1948.)
This time-honored tradition got started when more than a half century ago, Destin’s Immanuel Anglican Church began blessing a tiny fleet of perhaps four to five boats. From this handful of small boats, the fleet has grown and prospered into the largest fishing fleet in North America, with more than 125 charter-fishing boats. Captains fly the small blue cross-and-dove Blessing of the Fleet flag to indicate they and their vessels have been blessed.
The festivities commence at 4 p.m. with a Captain’s Testimony and Worship Service under the tent, open to all. At 5:15 p.m., the Blessing of the Vessels begins, where clergy from various local churches will bless each commercial boat one-by-one that makes its living on the sea, praying for safety and prosperity in the upcoming season. In 2024, over 158 vessels participated in this important procession.
Following the blessings, attendees are invited to a community fish feast provided by Brotula’s, with donations appreciated. Free parking is available at Brotula’s and the City of Destin’s harbor district lots.
For those not in a vessel, the event can be viewed from various vantage points around the harbor. Additionally, SkyBar at Edge Seafood is hosting a Blessing of the Fleet Watch Party starting at 4 p.m., featuring live music by The Six Piece Suits at 6 p.m. and a firework display at 9 p.m.
Captains wishing to have their vessels blessed can register by emailing [email protected] with their vessel’s name, captain’s name, business contact information and mailing address.
Though the Blessing of the Fleet is the focal component of the extended week of events, the Week of Blessings is now a 20-year tradition that brings together faith, family and the workplace alongside the fishing community.
For example, at the Blessing of the Marketplace, local pastors gather to pray over business owners, first responders and industry leaders seeking guidance and prosperity for their businesses and the community.
Organized by the Church of Destin, Inc., the Week of Blessings reflects our city’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and its enduring faith through all facets of life. Several pastors make up the ‘Church of Destin’ formed 20 years ago as a symbol of unity, crossing denominational barriers. As the Blessing of the Fleet grew, so did the hundreds of people, families and businesses in the area who also wanted to be blessed. And before you knew it, the vision expanded into a full “Week of Blessings.” That’s how the Blessing of the Marketplace was born, enabling the “blessing” to impact further to other locals, professionals and visitors, too.
“This week is a reminder of what makes Destin truly special,” said one of the event organizers. “We’re a fishing village, yes—but we’re also a faith-filled community that supports one another through every season.”
God continues to richly bless our "Little Fishing Village" and we shall continue to call upon Him to bless, preserve and protect those who make their living from our bountiful seas.
For more information, contact Immanuel Anglican Church www.iacdestin.org, 850-837-6324 or the Church of Destin at [email protected].
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Faith, Community and the Sea: Destin’s Week of Blessings Returns May 26–29
We all have our reasons for calling Destin home. Some come for the beauty, others for the lifestyle—but many of us feel we were drawn here for something greater. Yes, to the outside world Destin is now a beach destination. But long before the tourists and high-rises, this was a humble fishing town—a place where hard work met the sea, and faith anchored the community.
Known proudly as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” I believe Destin’s blessings go far beyond its natural beauty. Every year, we gather to bless our boats, our Harbor, our children, our leaders and our people. Could it be that this annual act of faith and unity brings favor to our city? That beneath the sparkle of our shoreline lies something even more powerful: a shared purpose and a spirit that keeps our little paradise thriving? Many Destin fisherman, locals and area professionals alike will tell you they believe their success rides on blessings.
Destin’s beloved Week of Blessings returns May 26–29, 2025. Organized by the Church of Destin, Inc., this cherished tradition brings together neighbors, businesses, fishermen and faith leaders for a heartfelt week of prayer, unity and gratitude that includes a series of faith-focused, family-oriented activities leading up to Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter, with the Blessing of the Fleet.
On Thursday, May 29, is the highlight of Destin’s Week of Blessings—the 68th Annual Blessing of the Fleet, Destin’s second oldest, annual tradition that pays homage to our city’s deep-rooted maritime heritage and is held behind Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer. (The oldest is our annual Fishing Rodeo first held in 1948.)
This time-honored tradition got started when more than a half century ago, Destin’s Immanuel Anglican Church began blessing a tiny fleet of perhaps four to five boats. From this handful of small boats, the fleet has grown and prospered into the largest fishing fleet in North America, with more than 125 charter-fishing boats. Captains fly the small blue cross-and-dove Blessing of the Fleet flag to indicate they and their vessels have been blessed.
The festivities commence at 4 p.m. with a Captain’s Testimony and Worship Service under the tent, open to all. At 5:15 p.m., the Blessing of the Vessels begins, where clergy from various local churches will bless each commercial boat one-by-one that makes its living on the sea, praying for safety and prosperity in the upcoming season. In 2024, over 158 vessels participated in this important procession.
Following the blessings, attendees are invited to a community fish feast provided by Brotula’s, with donations appreciated. Free parking is available at Brotula’s and the City of Destin’s harbor district lots.
For those not in a vessel, the event can be viewed from various vantage points around the harbor. Additionally, SkyBar at Edge Seafood is hosting a Blessing of the Fleet Watch Party starting at 4 p.m., featuring live music by The Six Piece Suits at 6 p.m. and a firework display at 9 p.m.
Captains wishing to have their vessels blessed can register by emailing [email protected] with their vessel’s name, captain’s name, business contact information and mailing address.
Though the Blessing of the Fleet is the focal component of the extended week of events, the Week of Blessings is now a 20-year tradition that brings together faith, family and the workplace alongside the fishing community.
For example, at the Blessing of the Marketplace, local pastors gather to pray over business owners, first responders and industry leaders seeking guidance and prosperity for their businesses and the community.
Organized by the Church of Destin, Inc., the Week of Blessings reflects our city’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and its enduring faith through all facets of life. Several pastors make up the ‘Church of Destin’ formed 20 years ago as a symbol of unity, crossing denominational barriers. As the Blessing of the Fleet grew, so did the hundreds of people, families and businesses in the area who also wanted to be blessed. And before you knew it, the vision expanded into a full “Week of Blessings.” That’s how the Blessing of the Marketplace was born, enabling the “blessing” to impact further to other locals, professionals and visitors, too.
“This week is a reminder of what makes Destin truly special,” said one of the event organizers. “We’re a fishing village, yes—but we’re also a faith-filled community that supports one another through every season.”
God continues to richly bless our "Little Fishing Village" and we shall continue to call upon Him to bless, preserve and protect those who make their living from our bountiful seas.
For more information, contact Immanuel Anglican Church www.iacdestin.org, 850-837-6324 or the Church of Destin at [email protected].

SUMMER HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR DESTIN:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
At Agape Home Pros, we understand the unique challenges Florida homeowners face, especially during the hot and humid summer months. To keep your home in top shape and avoid common insurance claims, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance tasks tailored to the season. Here are some crucial summer home maintenance tips for Destin residents.
1. AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE
CLEAN AND REPLACE FILTER
Why: Clogged filters reduce efficiency and can lead to system failure.
How: Check and replace filters monthly. Clean reusable filters regularly.
PROFESSIONAL HVAC CHECK-UP
Why: Ensures optimal performance and prevents unexpected breakdowns.
How: Schedule a professional inspection and servicing before the peak summer heat.
2. ROOF AND GUTTER INSPECTION
INSPECT AND REPAIR ROOF
Why: Summer storms can exacerbate existing damage, leading to leaks.
How: Check for loose or missing shingles, signs of wear, and potential leak points. Replace damaged shingles immediately. Click here to read more about how to Hurricane Proof Your Roof.
CLEAN GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS
Why: Prevents water damage and foundation issues.
How: Clear debris from gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from your home.
3. PEST CONTROL
SEAL ENTRY POINTS
Why: High temperatures and humidity attract pests indoors.
How: Inspect and seal cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, windows, and doors.
YARD MAINTENANCE
Why: Overgrown vegetation can harbor pests.
How: Trim bushes, mow the lawn regularly, and remove standing water where mosquitoes breed.
4. HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
INSPECT AND REINFORCE WINDOWS AND DOORS
Why: Prevents wind and water damage during storms.
How: Check for gaps and cracks. Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows if necessary.
CHECK AND SECURE OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Why: Loose items can become dangerous projectiles.
How: Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can be picked up by strong winds.
5. PLUMBING CHECK-UP
INSPECT FOR LEAKS
Why: Humidity and heat can exacerbate plumbing issues.
How: Check for leaks in hoses, faucets, and pipes. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water damage.
CLEAN AND MAINTAIN DRAINS
Why: Prevents clogs and backups.
How: Use natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to clean drains. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes.
6. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
CHECK AND REPLACE WORN-OUT WIRING
Why: Prevents fire hazards.
How: Inspect all visible wiring for wear and tear. Consider a professional inspection for hidden wiring.
SURGE PROTECTION
Why: Protects appliances from power surges during thunderstorms.
How: Install surge protectors on major appliances and consider a whole-house surge protection system.
7. EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
PRESSURE WASH EXTERIOR SURFACES
Why: Removes mold, mildew, and dirt buildup.
How: Pressure wash siding, driveways, and patios. Be cautious not to damage surfaces.
PAINT TOUCH-UPS
Why: Protects against weather damage.
How: Touch up any chipped or peeling paint to protect your home’s exterior from the elements.
8. FIRE SAFETY
CHECK SMOKE DETECTORS
Why: Ensures early detection of fires.
How: Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
CREATE A FIRE SAFETY PLAN
Why: Prepares your family in case of an emergency.
How: Develop and practice a fire escape plan with all household members.
By performing these summer-specific home maintenance tasks, Destin homeowners can protect their property from the unique challenges posed by the state’s climate. Regular maintenance not only helps in preventing common insurance claims but also ensures that your home remains a safe and comfortable haven throughout the year. Stay proactive and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained home.
Remember, as always, no shame in asking for help! Check out local service companies in the Destinites Local Service Directory who would be happy to lend a hand!
Happy Summer Destin!!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
At Agape Home Pros, we understand the unique challenges Florida homeowners face, especially during the hot and humid summer months. To keep your home in top shape and avoid common insurance claims, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance tasks tailored to the season. Here are some crucial summer home maintenance tips for Destin residents.
1. AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE
CLEAN AND REPLACE FILTER
Why: Clogged filters reduce efficiency and can lead to system failure.
How: Check and replace filters monthly. Clean reusable filters regularly.
PROFESSIONAL HVAC CHECK-UP
Why: Ensures optimal performance and prevents unexpected breakdowns.
How: Schedule a professional inspection and servicing before the peak summer heat.
2. ROOF AND GUTTER INSPECTION
INSPECT AND REPAIR ROOF
Why: Summer storms can exacerbate existing damage, leading to leaks.
How: Check for loose or missing shingles, signs of wear, and potential leak points. Replace damaged shingles immediately. Click here to read more about how to Hurricane Proof Your Roof.
CLEAN GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS
Why: Prevents water damage and foundation issues.
How: Clear debris from gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from your home.
3. PEST CONTROL
SEAL ENTRY POINTS
Why: High temperatures and humidity attract pests indoors.
How: Inspect and seal cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, windows, and doors.
YARD MAINTENANCE
Why: Overgrown vegetation can harbor pests.
How: Trim bushes, mow the lawn regularly, and remove standing water where mosquitoes breed.
4. HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
INSPECT AND REINFORCE WINDOWS AND DOORS
Why: Prevents wind and water damage during storms.
How: Check for gaps and cracks. Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows if necessary.
CHECK AND SECURE OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Why: Loose items can become dangerous projectiles.
How: Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can be picked up by strong winds.
5. PLUMBING CHECK-UP
INSPECT FOR LEAKS
Why: Humidity and heat can exacerbate plumbing issues.
How: Check for leaks in hoses, faucets, and pipes. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water damage.
CLEAN AND MAINTAIN DRAINS
Why: Prevents clogs and backups.
How: Use natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to clean drains. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes.
6. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
CHECK AND REPLACE WORN-OUT WIRING
Why: Prevents fire hazards.
How: Inspect all visible wiring for wear and tear. Consider a professional inspection for hidden wiring.
SURGE PROTECTION
Why: Protects appliances from power surges during thunderstorms.
How: Install surge protectors on major appliances and consider a whole-house surge protection system.
7. EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
PRESSURE WASH EXTERIOR SURFACES
Why: Removes mold, mildew, and dirt buildup.
How: Pressure wash siding, driveways, and patios. Be cautious not to damage surfaces.
PAINT TOUCH-UPS
Why: Protects against weather damage.
How: Touch up any chipped or peeling paint to protect your home’s exterior from the elements.
8. FIRE SAFETY
CHECK SMOKE DETECTORS
Why: Ensures early detection of fires.
How: Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
CREATE A FIRE SAFETY PLAN
Why: Prepares your family in case of an emergency.
How: Develop and practice a fire escape plan with all household members.
By performing these summer-specific home maintenance tasks, Destin homeowners can protect their property from the unique challenges posed by the state’s climate. Regular maintenance not only helps in preventing common insurance claims but also ensures that your home remains a safe and comfortable haven throughout the year. Stay proactive and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained home.
Remember, as always, no shame in asking for help! Check out local service companies in the Destinites Local Service Directory who would be happy to lend a hand!
Happy Summer Destin!!

Mother's Day has roots in both ancient traditions and more recent historical developments. Here's a breakdown of its origin:
Ancient Origins:
Ancient Origins:
- Greece and Rome: Festivals honoring mother goddesses like Rhea (Greek) and Cybele (Roman) were held in ancient times.
- Christian Influence: In the 16th century, “Mothering Sunday” was celebrated in parts of Europe, especially the UK. It was a day for Christians to return to their "mother church" and often involved visiting one’s mother as well.
- Ann Reeves Jarvis: A social activist in the mid-1800s, she organized “Mother’s Day Work Clubs” to improve health and sanitation.
- Julia Ward Howe: In 1870, she proposed a “Mother’s Peace Day” to promote peace after the Civil War.
- Anna Jarvis: Considered the founder of the modern U.S. Mother's Day. After her mother (Ann Reeves Jarvis) died in 1905, Anna campaigned for a national holiday to honor all mothers.
- The first official Mother’s Day was celebrated in 1908 in Grafton, West Virginia.
- In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May as a national holiday: Mother’s Day.
Medical Corner:
Cancer Breakthroughs:
Several promising cancer drugs are emerging in 2025, offering new hope across various cancer types. Here's an overview of the most notable developments:
🧬 Immunotherapy Breakthroughs
Dostarlimab (Jemperli)
This checkpoint inhibitor has shown remarkable success in treating cancers with mismatch repair deficiency (MMRd), including rectal, stomach, endometrial, and prostate cancers. In a recent trial, 80% of patients experienced complete tumor disappearance, with all rectal cancer patients remaining cancer-free five years post-treatment. The FDA has granted it breakthrough therapy designation, potentially accelerating its approval process. The Washington Post+3People.com+3adelaidenow+3People.com+2The Washington Post+2Wikipedia+2
Nivolumab (Opdivo) – Subcutaneous 'Superjab'
A new subcutaneous formulation of nivolumab, nicknamed the "superjab," has been approved in the UK. This five-minute injection replaces the traditional hour-long IV infusion, benefiting patients with 15 types of cancer, including lung, bowel, kidney, and skin cancers. The innovation aims to improve patient convenience and increase hospital capacities. Latest news & breaking headlines
💊 Targeted Therapies and Antibody-Drug ConjugatesDatopotamab Deruxtecan (Datroway)
Approved in January 2025, this antibody-drug conjugate targets Trop-2 and is used for treating unresectable or metastatic, hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It offers a new option for patients who have undergone prior endocrine-based therapy and chemotherapy.
Zongertinib
An experimental oral therapy by Boehringer Ingelheim, zongertinib has demonstrated a 71% tumor response rate in patients with advanced HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment also showed disease stabilization lasting over a year, indicating its potential as a significant advancement in lung cancer therapy. Reuters
🧪 Other Noteworthy DevelopmentsVimseltinib (Romvimza)
Approved in February 2025, vimseltinib is a kinase inhibitor used for treating symptomatic tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT). It offers a non-surgical option for patients where surgery could lead to severe morbidity. Drugs.com+2Wikipedia+2Targeted Oncology+2
Linvoseltamab (Lynozyfic)
Authorized in the European Union in April 2025, linvoseltamab is a bispecific monoclonal antibody targeting CD3 and BCMA. It's indicated for adults with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least three prior therapies. Cancer Therapy Advisor+18Wikipedia+18U.S. Food and Drug Administration+18
Several promising cancer drugs are emerging in 2025, offering new hope across various cancer types. Here's an overview of the most notable developments:
🧬 Immunotherapy Breakthroughs
Dostarlimab (Jemperli)
This checkpoint inhibitor has shown remarkable success in treating cancers with mismatch repair deficiency (MMRd), including rectal, stomach, endometrial, and prostate cancers. In a recent trial, 80% of patients experienced complete tumor disappearance, with all rectal cancer patients remaining cancer-free five years post-treatment. The FDA has granted it breakthrough therapy designation, potentially accelerating its approval process. The Washington Post+3People.com+3adelaidenow+3People.com+2The Washington Post+2Wikipedia+2
Nivolumab (Opdivo) – Subcutaneous 'Superjab'
A new subcutaneous formulation of nivolumab, nicknamed the "superjab," has been approved in the UK. This five-minute injection replaces the traditional hour-long IV infusion, benefiting patients with 15 types of cancer, including lung, bowel, kidney, and skin cancers. The innovation aims to improve patient convenience and increase hospital capacities. Latest news & breaking headlines
💊 Targeted Therapies and Antibody-Drug ConjugatesDatopotamab Deruxtecan (Datroway)
Approved in January 2025, this antibody-drug conjugate targets Trop-2 and is used for treating unresectable or metastatic, hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. It offers a new option for patients who have undergone prior endocrine-based therapy and chemotherapy.
Zongertinib
An experimental oral therapy by Boehringer Ingelheim, zongertinib has demonstrated a 71% tumor response rate in patients with advanced HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment also showed disease stabilization lasting over a year, indicating its potential as a significant advancement in lung cancer therapy. Reuters
🧪 Other Noteworthy DevelopmentsVimseltinib (Romvimza)
Approved in February 2025, vimseltinib is a kinase inhibitor used for treating symptomatic tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT). It offers a non-surgical option for patients where surgery could lead to severe morbidity. Drugs.com+2Wikipedia+2Targeted Oncology+2
Linvoseltamab (Lynozyfic)
Authorized in the European Union in April 2025, linvoseltamab is a bispecific monoclonal antibody targeting CD3 and BCMA. It's indicated for adults with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least three prior therapies. Cancer Therapy Advisor+18Wikipedia+18U.S. Food and Drug Administration+18

Volunteer Opportunites: Posted from the Destin City website at Volunteer Opportunities | Destin, FL - Official Website (cityofdestin.com)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Okaloosa County Master Gardeners: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OCMGA
If you want to know what to plant and when, check out this Planting calendar on the OCMGA website. https://www.ocmga.org |

Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
BIBLE: Book Of Ruth - Located between the books of Judges and 1 Samuel
Ruth is revered in the Bible for her profound loyalty and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, even in the face of hardship and cultural differences. Her unwavering commitment, demonstrated by her willingness to abandon her own people and land to follow Naomi to a foreign country, makes her an example of faith and perseverance. Furthermore, Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of King David and, by extension, Jesus Christ, highlights her significance in God's plan of redemption.
Here's a more detailed look at what makes Ruth special:- Unwavering Loyalty:
Ruth's famous declaration, "Whither you go, I will go," (Ruth 1:16) showcases her deep devotion and unwavering commitment to Naomi. - Redemption and Inclusion:
Ruth, a Moabite outsider, is included in the lineage of Jesus Christ through her marriage to Boaz and the birth of their son, Obed, who is the grandfather of King David. - Symbol of God's Grace:
Ruth's story demonstrates God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles (non-Jewish people) into His plan, offering a message of hope and redemption for all. - Model of Loving-Kindness:
Ruth's actions, especially her choice to accompany Naomi to a foreign land and her willingness to glean in the fields, exemplify loving-kindness and concern for others. - Inspiration for Faith:
Ruth's faith and unwavering commitment to Naomi, even in challenging circumstances, provide inspiration for believers to trust in God's plan and remain faithful in their own lives.

No part of this website or newsletter may copied or reproduced in any way without expressed written consent of the owner. Destinites is a legally registered name with logo copyright and TM. All rights reserved 2025.
Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021