The family of 1000-Lb. Sisters is mourning a painful loss after Amanda Halterman shared that their cousin, Katie Slaton, has died following a difficult battle with cancer. She was only 37, and her passing has left those closest to her devastated.

Katie, who appeared during season five of the TLC series after Tammy Slaton returned home from weight loss rehab, had become a familiar face to viewers. Fans connected with her quickly because of her warmth, her easygoing energy, and the close bond she shared with Amy and Tammy.

Earlier this year, Katie was diagnosed with stage four gastric adenocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive type of stomach cancer. She went through chemotherapy in the months that followed, but she passed away on Monday, August 25, at Linda White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana.

On Tuesday, Amanda Halterman, who is also Amy and Tammy’s sister, confirmed the heartbreaking news on Instagram. Alongside a photo of herself with Katie, Amanda wrote that her heart and spirit were completely crushed and described Katie as someone unforgettable, full of love, life, and strength.

“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 later shared another emotional message, asking for prayers for Katie’s parents, her children, and everyone who loved her. She also thanked those who had supported Katie during her illness.

“I know both our grandparents and friends was there to welcome you home. Please pray for my aunt, uncle and cousins but mostly for the babies and for Natalie to be strong. Please pray for everyone who loves her. 💔 Thank you all who has come out and supported her. #cancerscks.”

Tammy and Amy have not yet spoken publicly about Katie’s death. However, earlier this year, Tammy had already asked fans to support her cousin after the diagnosis became known. In January, she posted a GoFundMe link for Katie’s treatment and thanked viewers for always standing by the family.

“Y’all I’m so sorry to be asking a big favor like this but if anyone can help, even if it’s a dollar would help my cousin out so much. She has been on my show but this is something new. Our family just found out about her having cancer.

Our fans have been there for us for so long now and y’all mean the world so any act of kindness is and will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much and before anyone asks, yes I’ve donated myself.”

Katie was born on September 17, 1987, in Morganfield, Kentucky, to Jerry and Frances Slaton. Those who knew her say she loved fishing, music, and spending time with family and friends. Her loved ones are now remembering her as someone who brought warmth and joy wherever she went, a person whose energy made a lasting impact on everyone around her.

Her death has also brought renewed attention to stomach cancer, the illness she fought so bravely. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 30,000 people in the United States are expected to be diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2025. Of those, around 18,000 are expected to be men and about 12,000 women. The disease is also projected to claim nearly 11,000 lives this year.

Although stomach cancer accounts for only a small percentage of new cancer cases overall, its impact can be severe because it is often discovered late. The Mayo Clinic notes that stomach cancer may not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages, which makes it especially dangerous.

Still, there are signs that should not be ignored. These may include trouble swallowing, ongoing indigestion, frequent heartburn, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or pressure, bloating after meals, feeling full quickly, appetite loss, unexplained weight loss, severe fatigue, and black or tar-like stools, which may point to internal bleeding.

Anyone experiencing symptoms like these should speak with a doctor as soon as possible, since early detection can make a major difference.

Katie’s loss has deeply shaken her family, friends, and the many viewers who came to know her through the show. For those who loved her, she will be remembered not only for the battle she faced, but for the love, spirit, and light she gave so freely.