The Indianapolis, Indiana community is mourning the loss of longtime television journalist Tanya Spencer, who passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024 at the age of 53, following a prolonged battle with colon cancer. Spencer, known professionally as Tanya Sumner after her marriage, spent over 20 years in journalism, with a decade dedicated to WRTV.
Spencer’s journey through journalism began after she graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1996. She first made her mark at 14 WFIE in Evansville, Indiana, where she worked until 2005. She then moved to Indianapolis and joined WRTV, becoming a well-respected reporter and anchor.
In November 2022, Spencer’s life took a drastic turn when she underwent emergency surgery and was diagnosed with colon cancer. The cancer had already spread throughout her abdomen, driven by a rare and aggressive genetic mutation known as KRAS G12C. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and various cancer-fighting treatments, the disease continued to advance. By September 2023, the treatments had proven ineffective.
Throughout her illness, Spencer remained a strong advocate for health awareness, urging others to get regular colonoscopies. She highlighted the importance of early detection, emphasizing in a candid interview with WRTV, “It’s true that a colonoscopy is uncomfortable and unpleasant, and no one looks forward to it. But it’s important to get it done at age 45. If I had discovered my tumor, which was the size of a grapefruit, six years earlier, things would be very different now.”
Her advocacy was rooted in personal experience, as she shared the challenges of her delayed diagnosis. In a heartfelt Facebook post, she reminded her friends and followers of life’s true priorities, writing, “Time and good health are our only real commodities, the only currencies that truly matter.”
Spencer’s professional life was distinguished by her dedication and commitment. Emmy award-winning WRTV anchor Rafael Sánchez praised her in a moving tribute, stating, “She was dedicated and hardworking, yet valued her privacy. Please keep her husband, son, father, family, and friends in your thoughts.”
After leaving WRTV in 2015, Spencer continued to serve her community, taking on the Director of Public Relations role and later serving as a councilwoman for Whitestown, about 30 minutes outside of Indianapolis. She also served as Vice President for Whitestown’s District 3. Whitestown Town Manager Katie Barr remembered her as a dedicated leader, stating, “Her passion for this community was contagious, and she will be deeply missed.”
The towns of Whitestown and nearby Zionsville both expressed their grief and respect for Spencer. A statement from the town of Zionsville described her as a “true public servant” and highlighted the positive impact of her efforts on the community. “Tanya was a dedicated public servant, a loving wife, and a mother. She will be missed by everyone. Her contributions have made both Whitestown and Zionsville better places. We extend our deepest condolences on behalf of all of us.”
Spencer’s battle with cancer was not only a personal struggle but also a financial one. She had to take two expensive medications not covered by insurance, which cost a combined $35,000 each month. Her friends and community rallied to support her, raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign to help alleviate the financial burden. Spencer’s close friends, Julia Kathary and Jody Chiarotti, were instrumental in her fight, advocating for her and ensuring she received the necessary treatments.
In a news interview, Spencer reflected on her friends’ support, “They’ve been my advocates. They’ve lifted me.” This support system played a crucial role in her journey, showcasing the power of community and friendship during times of crisis.
Spencer’s passing leaves behind her husband and their teenage son. Her legacy as a journalist, public servant, and health advocate continues to inspire those who knew her. As the Indianapolis community mourns her loss, her words of wisdom and courage in adversity demonstrate her strength and character.
