Family Anderson An American family with a mutation in the CDH1 gene has led to a rare form of stomach cancer in eight of its nine members Date of Birth: . Country: USA

Content:

1. Rare Stomach Cancer and the Anderson Family's Genetic Mutation
2. Genetic Predisposition
3. Inheritance Pattern
4. CDH1 Gene Mutation
5. Surgical Intervention
6. Lacey's Battle
7. Surgical Postponement
8. Chemotherapy and Support
9. Weight Loss and Body Image
10. Treatment Progress
11. Family Support
12. Future Outlook
13. Spreading Awareness

Rare Stomach Cancer and the Anderson Family's Genetic Mutation

Tragic Losses

The Anderson family has endured a devastating journey, with eight out of its nine members diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer. The youngest survivor, 28-year-old Lacey Anderson, faces a relentless battle against a disease that has claimed the life of one family member and left six others fighting for their lives after undergoing complete stomach removals.

Genetic Predisposition

The Andersons' nightmare began with Frank, Lacey's paternal uncle. During a colonoscopy, polyps were discovered throughout his colon, prompting further investigation. A blood test revealed a mutation in the CDH1 gene, suggesting a high risk of hereditary stomach cancer.

Inheritance Pattern

Subsequent testing confirmed the worst. Frank's children, Laura and Eric, also inherited the mutation, as did Lacey's father, John, and her older brother, Robert. "It was progressively getting scarier and scarier," Lacey recalls.

CDH1 Gene Mutation

The CDH1 gene is responsible for producing a protein that suppresses tumors. Mutations in this gene can cause rare forms of stomach cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer, but the most common manifestation is stomach cancer. There are currently 120 known mutations within the CDH1 gene.

Surgical Intervention

Prior to Frank's passing in May 2018 at age 63, six Anderson family members underwent gastric surgeries at the University of Chicago and the University of Maryland, some participating in a National Institutes of Health program. All six had their stomachs completely removed.

Lacey's Battle

Last year, Lacey began experiencing abdominal pain. Despite her family history, she was initially dismissed by doctors who attributed her symptoms to stress. However, the pain persisted, and in July 2018, she was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer that had spread to her intestines and caused fluid accumulation in her abdomen.

Surgical Postponement

During surgery, doctors discovered that Lacey's tumor was too advanced for a gastrectomy and postponed the procedure. "I watched my uncle battle it for a whole year, and that frightened me more than anything," Lacey admits.

Chemotherapy and Support

Lacey was sent home to begin chemotherapy in hopes of shrinking the tumors. She met with her oncologist on her 28th birthday, July 20, 2018. Boyfriend Adam Levine stood by her side, unwavering in his support.

Weight Loss and Body Image

Lacey's health struggles have forced her to leave work and rely heavily on Adam for household chores. Her weight has plummeted from over 300 pounds to 145 pounds. "I'm extremely self-conscious about my weight," she says, "but Adam tells me I'm beautiful every day."

Treatment Progress

After three rounds of chemotherapy, Lacey's tumors have shown some improvement. Her appetite has returned, and she is hopeful that the treatment will continue to be successful.

Family Support

Despite spending time in the hospital for chemotherapy, Lacey tries to return home as soon as possible to be with her family, fiancé, and pets. "Going home is always magical," she says. Her loved ones provide her with an unparalleled level of support, having faced similar challenges themselves.

Future Outlook

Lacey will undergo three more rounds of chemotherapy in the fall, followed by a CT scan to assess the efficacy of the treatment. Her doctors remain cautiously optimistic and emphasize that her prognosis remains uncertain.

Spreading Awareness

Lacey is determined to raise awareness about the CDH1 gene mutation and hereditary stomach cancer. She spends time with her family and prepares for her upcoming wedding, knowing that her journey has given her a unique perspective and the strength to advocate for others.

Strong-spirit

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