BOSTON -- After genetic testing, three local residents chose radical surgery after a few of their family members died of cancer.

NewsCenter 5's Pam Cross reported that they reunited Tuesday -- a family of survivors.

VIDEO: Family Members Choose Radical Surgery To Beat Cancer

"We were tested last July and found out. It's overwhelming. Even now, I still think about it. I think this is bizarre," said Beth Lambert.

Lambert is the youngest of five siblings. Four carry one genetic marker that mutated and leads to cancer. Stomach cancer two years ago took the life of her older brother, Steven.

"My father had stomach cancer. His brother -- we found afterward -- had stomach cancer. His son had stomach cancer, and they all died," Mary Walsh said.

Once Walsh's DNA testing showed the marker, her children had genetic testing.

"It's a tough decision to make the choice to get tested, sure, because we all want to know certain things, but once you know certain things you have to take action," Michael Walsh said.

By last fall, Michael and sisters Beth and Kathy, who arrived Tuesday from Texas, all had surgery removing their stomachs. They've each lost a lot of weight, but eat several small meals.

In the meantime, Mary, who had colon cancer, relentlessly contacted relatives. They recently met cousin Fred Allard. After testing, his stomach was removed in January. His grandfather and father died years ago of stomach cancer.

"He didn't have a chance, and thanks to the Walshs and Mary for fighting the way she did, I've been given a new lease on life," Allard said.

The next generation could carry the marker.

"There's research going on right now, actually, to give a genetic shot which would alter that gene from causing the cancer," Kathy Flores said.