Meredith Roberts, a 17-year-old swimmer from North Tonawanda, New York, is celebrating this Thanksgiving with a renewed sense of gratitude after undergoing a life-saving liver transplant. Just weeks ago, Meredith faced a medical emergency that led to acute liver failure, a condition that required immediate intervention.
The crisis began in late October 2023 when Meredith initially believed she was experiencing gallbladder issues. “I figured I’d be out of Children’s in Buffalo in a day and a half,” she recalled. However, her condition rapidly worsened, prompting her transfer to UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, where doctors confirmed she required a liver transplant.
A New Lease on Life
After three weeks of uncertainty, Meredith received a new liver from a younger donor. While the identity of the donor family remains unknown, Meredith has expressed her gratitude through a heartfelt letter. “I’m alive,” she said, beaming with appreciation. “I’m thankful for my liver.”
Recovery has been intensive, requiring Meredith to remain in Pittsburgh for at least another six to eight weeks. Her mother, Sara Roberts, praised the hospital’s proactive approach to care. “Every medication, every detail — they teach her everything. It’s a lifelong change, and they’re making sure she’s prepared,” Sara stated.
Meredith is already walking laps around her hospital unit, a testament to her resilience. “I’m not yellow and jaundiced anymore,” she proudly declared, highlighting her progress since the transplant. This remarkable journey has not only strengthened her physically but has also united her family and friends in support.
Community Support and Joy
As she continues to recover, Meredith remains an ardent supporter of her favorite football team, the Buffalo Bills. Recently, she received a special surprise when Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas and his wife, Patty, reached out to her with a signed jersey. “They’re so kind and down to earth. We can’t thank them enough,” Sara said.
Meredith plans to walk the hospital hallways wearing jersey No. 34, while her nurses and the local community show their support by donning their own team gear. “It’s an incredible gift,” Sara emphasized. “A gift we never wanted to need — but if we had to go through this, she has quite the army around her.”
As Thanksgiving approaches, Meredith’s story serves as a reminder of resilience and hope. With the support of her family, medical team, and community, she is looking forward to embracing life with her “shiny new liver.”
