Fans of 1000lb Sisters are mourning the loss of Katie Slaton, cousin of stars Tammy and Amy Slaton. Katie, just 37, passed away after being diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer earlier this year.

Her cousin Amanda Halterman shared the heartbreaking news online. “My little cousin went to sit at the feet of Jesus yesterday… She was the life of the party and my best friend,” Amanda wrote, asking for prayers and support.

Katie’s diagnosis was gastric adenocarcinoma, the most common form of stomach cancer. Each year, about 30,000 Americans receive this diagnosis. Doctors warn that symptoms often appear late, making early detection difficult.

Experts list 12 signs to watch for, including persistent indigestion, trouble swallowing, nausea, bloating, unexplained weight loss, and black stools. “She showed love that was accepting and given freely,” Amanda remembered.

Katie’s story is a painful reminder of why awareness matters. Would you recognize the warning signs of stomach cancer if they appeared in someone you love?