How a two-time cancer survivor and oncology nurse supports and inspires others

At just 6 years old, Kaela Heinrich was diagnosed with kidney cancer, which spread to her lung. By 8 years old, she completed treatment, but her cancer journey was far from over. 

Diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2018 after her primary care physician discovered a lump, Heinrich underwent a bilateral mastectomy. But 11 days later, she was brought back to the operating room to remove the reconstruction due to complications primarily related to the radiation she underwent as a child. 

A two-time cancer survivor, Heinrich also witnessed her mom battle cancer twice – the second time in 2018, the same year as Heinrich’s diagnosis. She ultimately passed away from metastatic lung cancer. 

It was those very personal cancer experiences that drew Heinrich to a career in oncology. 

In July 2022, she joined the team at Aurora Medical Center – Summit as a breast cancer nurse navigator, a role she is passionate about and remains in today. Heinrich acknowledges that while every patient’s journey is unique, her own experiences with cancer allow her to walk alongside them with deep empathy and understanding.   

“I hold hands with every woman who is diagnosed with breast cancer at Aurora Summit,” she says. “I am their first point of contact when they get the news they have breast cancer.” 

From there, Heinrich is with patients every step of the way – helping them find hope, answers and a path forward. 

“I do a thorough intake to understand their support system and identify any barriers that could delay treatment,” she explains. “I make sure they know the path forward and answer questions about diagnosis and treatment. I like to think of myself as the person who can help put the puzzle together and make sure we’re giving optimal care in a timely manner.” 

Heinrich has embraced cancer survivorship with strength and determination. This summer, she trained with Aurora Health Care’s Team Phoenix, a group of female cancer survivors who come together during a 14-week program to run, bike and swim. At the end of the program, Heinrich and her fellow athletes completed a triathlon. 

“I get choked up thinking about it. I feel validated and seen without having to even tell my story,” she says. “From day one, they have brought positivity into my life. I look forward to training each week. I had never run a mile in my life because I had lung metastasis, multiple lung surgeries and full lung radiation. That seemed completely out of reach. I can’t believe I’m on the other side. I can run, bike and swim now. I’ve carried my story every mile of every practice and of every activity I’ve done. I feel like I’ve been able to shift that pain into power.” 

Heinrich says every October holds significance in her life. “I’m reminded how honored I am to do everything I can – personally and professionally – to make the path lighter for the next person who has to walk it,” she says.

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