In September 1999, at age 43, Meredith was diagnosed with infiltrating ductal and lobular breast cancer. What followed was a challenging two-year journey that included 18 surgeries and procedures, along with allergic reactions, missed treatments, changing diagnoses, and even a broken medi-port that traveled through her heart.

Through it all, Meredith found strength in her care team—and plenty of reasons to laugh.

Finding NECS

Meredith first came to New England Cancer Specialists for a second opinion.

“I liked my doctor and her recommendations,” she says. “Ultimately, I got three opinions. I would encourage everyone to get at least two!”

Once treatment began, Meredith quickly developed close relationships with the physicians, nurses and staff at NECS.

“We all spent a lot of time together over a two-year period. I’m not very quiet, and we had a lot of laughs and fun along the way.”

Even on days when she wasn’t receiving treatment, Meredith would sometimes stop by the treatment room to visit. She describes the environment as feeling less like a medical office and more like a family gathering.

“It was like we were all family.”

Meredith even brought members of the media with her on several occasions to show that cancer treatment didn’t always have to be scary.

“It is serious stuff,” she says. “But I think attitude plays a big part in your health as well.”

Making Lemonade

Meredith’s treatment came with more than its share of setbacks. But instead of letting them define her experience, she found ways to bring humor and connection into the hardest days.

“Many of my times in the treatment room turned into parties, and we actually had fun!”

She would bring a different friend with her to treatments, creating themes and sharing gifts with the staff and other patients.

“Crazy, but when life gives you lemons…well, you know what to do!”

Meredith also sought additional opinions and check-ins through Dana-Farber, with her care coordinated between the teams.

“We went aggressive, and I am glad we did,” she says. “I wanted to come through the process with no regrets.”

A Lasting Connection

More than 27 years later, Meredith’s connection to NECS continues.

Over the years, she has known many physicians and staff members, including people who have since retired or moved on. Some have become dear friends. Her original physician, Dr. Tracey Weisberg, remains part of her life, and Meredith still enjoys catching up with her through telemedicine.

“There are so many names and faces that I will be forever grateful for,” she says.

Looking back, Meredith credits NECS with providing both the expertise and personal support she needed during an incredibly difficult time.

“It was just the right size to care, but smart enough to be on the cutting edge of my cancer care,” she says.

Today, Meredith encourages others facing a cancer diagnosis to seek multiple opinions, find a team they trust and stay engaged in their care.

“NECS offers comprehensive treatment for your cancer, emotionally, physically, and mentally.”

After everything she has been through, Meredith’s perspective is simple: face the journey head-on, surround yourself with people who care, and whenever possible, make some lemonade along the way.

“I am still here today.”