A CTNNA1 Family Diagnosis: Claire (Previvor) & Suzanne (Stage 4)

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Suzanne Ottinger was diagnosed with stage 4 gastric cancer in September of 2021. A year later, she tested positive for the CTNNA1 gene, meaning her variant of cancer was hereditary. Claire, her 19-year-old daughter, recently positive for the pathogenic gene. Together, they are determining what steps to take to stay healthy.
Suzanne underwent multiple tests to see if her cancer had a genetic origin. Testing revealed two variants of unknown significance. One variant was linked with appendiceal cancer and a second linked to gastric cancer. At the time, they assured her that this particular anomaly didn't cause her cancer, and that there was no need for further family testing.
Later, during a Hope for Stomach Cancer webinar, Suzanne learned that CTNNA1 is a proven genetic risk factor for cancer. She broke the news to her family, and they all underwent genetic testing.
The results were mixed. Those who tested negative didn't take any preventative steps, while those who tested positive have either elected for total gastrectomies or chosen ongoing surveillance.
Claire is still weighing her options. Naturally, she was scared when she tested positive, and uncertain about life without a stomach. Claire will have an endoscopy soon, and she is leaning toward having an endoscopy if they discover any spots. She is also participating in a trial for hereditary diffuse cancer at NIH.
Both Claire and Suzanne stress the importance of keeping an open mind and considering all the possibilities for staying healthy.

[@K9sf]

God bless you guys and stay positive! Thank you for sharing.

[@suzanneottinger3643]

Thank you!

[@HopeForStomachCancer]

Support the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act! Take action today at GastricCancerAdvocacy.org by emailing Congress now. Help us end stomach cancer!

[@lanalloyd9737]

Great video and Claire did a fantastic job. Such great information, love you guys!

[@suzanneottinger3643]

Thank you Lana!