MUNDS VIEW, Minn. – A Minnesota family is using the loss of their loved one to raise awareness about genetic cancer risks. As walkers make their way through Silver Lake Park, Jean Jones thinks of her brother Tom.
“My brother was at the very first walk and helped organize it,” Jean Jones said. “He died a month after the walk.”
Jones took up the torch to help organize the ‘No Stomach for Cancer’ walk after her brother’s death in 2012. His death led other family members to investigate, and to a shocking discovery.
“Suddenly, within six months we had two family members come back with positive signs of cancer.”
A dozen members of Jones’ family also had the genetic mutation, putting them at risk and requiring gastric bypass surgery.
But Saturday’s walk is intended to raise awareness about all types of stomach cancer, which the American Cancer Society says accounts for nearly 27,000 cases annually.
“I’m amazed that it has become as big as it is now. I hope it becomes as big as breast cancer and ovarian cancer. More people know about it, more people can survive from it.”
More information about complaints and risk factors for stomach cancer can be found here.
WCCO personnel
