Faces of Hope

Leah Reineke

Fallopian Tube Cancer Survivor

“If I help one person because of what I’ve been through,” said Leah Reineke, “I will feel like I’ve done my job.”

Leah uses her experience as a fallopian tube cancer survivor as a way to strengthen, inspire and inform. A member of several support groups, Leah embraces the power of positivity and shares her story of survival with others.

Leah was diagnosed in 2013 and referred to gynecologic oncologist Niyati Nadkarni, MD, at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.

“The doctors were excited because they caught the cancer so early,” said Leah. “It is unusual to find this cancer at that stage.”

Genetic testing done through the Hereditary Cancer Risk Program revealed Leah also carried the BRCA1 gene mutation. Leah scheduled a preventative double mastectomy with Methodist Breast Care Center surgical oncologist Jim Reilly, MD, and eventually had new implants inserted by Methodist Physicians Clinic plastic surgeon Katie Honz, MD. When chemotherapy took her hair, Leah formed a close bond with Methodist cosmetologist Lori Fuchs at Inner Beauty Salon.

Most importantly, Leah also shared her genetic test results with her family. Some tested positive for the same gene mutation – leading to a life-saving diagnosis for an aunt.

“I’m so very thankful for the care I’ve received and the friends and support I found through Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center,” said Leah. “Thanks to them, I have a long, healthy life ahead of me.”