Katie Slaton, cousin of 1000-lb Sisters stars Amy and Tammy Slaton, has died at the age of 37 following a battle with cancer. The reality TV personality appeared in multiple episodes of the popular TLC show documenting her cousins' weight loss journeys.
Amanda Halterman, Katie's cousin, confirmed the tragic news on Instagram yesterday. She wrote: "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."
Amanda continued her emotional tribute: "She was the life of the [party] and my best friend. 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."
Cancer battle
Katie received a devastating stage 4 cancer diagnosis earlier this year. The Daily Mail reports she was specifically battling gastric adenocarcinoma, an aggressive form of stomach cancer.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched in January to support Katie's treatment costs. Tammy Slaton promoted the fundraising efforts, telling her followers: "Y'all I'm so sorry to be asking a big favour like this but if anyone can help even if it's a dollar I.T. would help my cousin out so much."
According to the Daily Mail, Katie's girlfriend Natalie Gerrick Bailie had been documenting Katie's chemotherapy journey on Facebook, sharing updates with concerned friends and family members.
Family support
The Slaton family has faced multiple tragedies recently. The Daily Mail reports they previously lost Tammy's husband Caleb Willingham in July 2023, adding to the family's grief.
Amanda had asked for prayers just one day before Katie's death, posting: "Please whisper a prayer for our family as we continue to support [Katie]. I am so thankful to be allowed to stand by your side."
Tammy emphasised that prayers would be "greatly appreciated" by the family, particularly for those unable to contribute financially to Katie's treatment fund.
Sources used: "Daily Star", "Mirror", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
