Reality TV star Katie Slaton, known from the series “1000lb Sisters” and cousin to Tammy and Amy Slaton, has passed away at the age of 37.
Katie appeared in the fifth season of the TLC show, during the time Tammy was in a weight loss rehab program. The show, now in its seventh season, follows the sisters as they embark on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle.
Earlier this year, Katie received a devastating diagnosis of stage four stomach cancer. She was undergoing chemotherapy for gastric adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that starts in the gland cells in the stomach’s innermost lining.
The American Cancer Society reports that 90 to 95 percent of stomach cancers are adenocarcinomas. Annually, approximately 30,000 individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed with stomach cancer, accounting for around 1.5 percent of all new cancer cases in the country.
Katie passed away on Monday, August 25. Her cousin, Amanda Halterman, who is also Tammy and Amy’s sister, shared the tragic news on Instagram.
On Tuesday, August 26, Amanda shared a photo of herself with Katie, expressing her grief: “It is with a completely crushed heart and spirit that I have to post this. My little cousin went to sit at the feet of Jesus yesterday.
“She was a force to be reckoned with and showed love that was accepting and given freely. She was the life of the party and my best friend.”
Amanda added: “Please pray for everyone who loves her. Thank you all who has come out and supported her. #cancerscks.”
The Mayo Clinic notes that stomach cancer often doesn’t show symptoms in its early stages.
Symptoms might not appear until the cancer has ‘advanced.’
Signs to be mindful of include issues related to appetite, digestion, and energy levels.
If you have concerns, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
If you’re affected by these issues and need to speak with someone confidentially, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or through their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.