Meet Atlee and Chrissy Reetz, a married couple in their 40s from Topeka and parents of two school‑aged boys. In 2024, both were diagnosed with colon cancer within months of each other. Their experience was shocking and emotional. As Atlee shared, “When you hear the phrase about cancer, ‘we are in this together,’ we were literally in this together.”
“When you hear the phrase about cancer, ‘we are in this together,’ we were literally in this together.”
Atlee Reetz
Oncologist
Their journey brought them to The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus Cancer Center, where they found strength in one another and comfort in the compassionate care provided by their healthcare team. Their oncologist, Dr. Manidhar Lekkala, notes that it is highly unusual to treat a younger couple at the same time for colon cancer. In the video, he explains that over the last decade there has been an increase in patients under 50 being diagnosed with colon cancer. He emphasizes the importance of following updated screening recommendations, which now call for starting routine colon cancer screening at age 45. “If you find cancers at an earlier stage then the chance of cure is significantly higher,” states Dr. Lekkala.
Atlee and Chrissy’s experience reinforces how important it is to listen to your body, ask questions, and prioritize screening. Chrissy shares the message she hopes others take to heart: “Get your regular doctor’s visits and screenings – it’s worth it, it can save your life.” Their journey shows how early detection and compassionate, knowledgeable care can change the outcome for families just like theirs.
“Get your regular doctor’s visits and screenings – it’s worth it, it can save your life.”
Chrissy Reetz
This is a Topeka family’s real and heartfelt story of resilience, hope, and the lifesaving difference timely care and expert medical guidance can make.
and following screening guidelines truly matter.
If you are 45 or older, or have risk factors, consider talking with your provider about which colorectal screening option is right for you. Taking preventive steps today supports better health tomorrow.