About Us & Sponsors

About the Symposium

Founded in 2014 by Dr. Linda Malkas in honor of Gayle Brinkenhoff, this symposium has grown from an intimate gathering into one of the premier women's cancers research events on the West Coast. Gayle's legacy, and the enduring support of the Brinkenhoff family through RevitaLash Cosmetics/Athena Cosmetics - continues to make this gathering possible year after year. The symposium's scope now encompasses all women's cancers, reflecting the breadth of scientific inquiry and the commitment to improving outcomes for all women affected by cancer. The symposium is led by Dr. Malkas alongside co-organizer Dr. Mark LaBarge, whose hands-on involvement in curating the scientific program and assembling each year's speaker lineup has been instrumental in shaping the event's growing reputation. Now in its third year of co-leadership, their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to bringing the most current and impactful science to this gathering. The symposium's expanded scope, now covering all women's cancers, reflects both the evolution of the science and a dedication to improving outcomes for every woman affected by these diseases.

Founding & Presenting Sponsor

RevitaLash Cosmetics was born from an act of love. In 2006, ophthalmologist Dr. Michael Brinkenhoff created the original lash conditioning serum for his wife, Gayle, who was waging a courageous battle against metastatic breast cancer, a disease she had been living with since her diagnosis at age 32. The formula helped restore her lashes and her confidence, and Gayle herself gave the product its name: RevitaLash. Together, the Brinkenhoffs brought the serum to the world, and a brand was born. Gayle passed away after more than a decade of fighting, but her spirit and her belief in giving back have never left the company she co-founded. A commitment to funding cancer research and education is woven into the brand's identity year-round through its Eternally Pink initiative.

As the symposium's founding and presenting sponsor since 2014, RevitaLash Cosmetics and Athena Cosmetics have made this gathering possible year after year, sustaining a legacy that is as personal as it is purposeful. We are profoundly grateful for their continued partnership and their unwavering dedication to Gayle's memory.