In memory of Matt Tully, Indiana delegation introduces stomach cancer awareness resolution

Matthew Tully, an IndyStar columnist and reporter who died recently, two years after he was diagnosed with stomach cancer, has inspired federal lawmakers from Indiana to put forth a resolution in his memory.

U.S. Reps. André Carson and Susan Brooks, along with U.S. Sens. Joe Donnelly and Todd Young, introduced a House resolution expressing support for the goals and ideas of ‘‘Stomach Cancer Awareness Month," the Indiana congressional delegation said Thursday.

Tully died on Oct. 29 at the age of 49. He is survived by his wife, Valerie, and their 7-year-old son, Reid.

He was one of nearly 11,000 Americans who died from stomach cancer this year, according to the delegation's news release. The lawmakers noted that Tully shared his cancer diagnosis in a column published in October 2016.

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“Losing Indy Star columnist Matt Tully at such young age was a tragedy for his family and our community,” Rep. Carson said in the release. “Sadly, tragedies like this are being felt around the world. Stomach cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide."

Tully was a reporter and columnist at The Indianapolis Star, starting in 2002. He graduated from Indiana University and previously worked in Washington, D.C., covering the U.S. Senate for five years.

He's remembered as a thoughtful, passionate and powerful voice in the Indianapolis community. City and state officials joined family, friends and co-workers in mourning his death. 

“Matt challenged us all to be more thoughtful and compassionate toward our fellow Hoosiers,” Donnelly said.  

Thursday's resolution calls for more research into effective early diagnosis, screening and treatment for stomach cancer. It also says more education for patients and health-care providers is needed for the "timely recognition of stomach cancer symptoms."

“Matt’s death was an enormous loss for Central Indiana,” Young said. “He used his column to shine a light on local problems and the people working to solve them. The least we can do is honor his memory by shining a light on this devastating disease.” 

Call IndyStar reporter Crystal Hill at 317-444-6094. Follow her on Twitter: @crysnhill.