January 26, 2025

Meridith’s Stage 4 Melanoma Story

Meridith, a fitness trainer and mother of three, was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma in September 2023. Despite being physically fit and vigilant about her skin health, she experienced no warning signs until a sudden seizure led to her diagnosis.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Doctors discovered two brain metastases connected to her stage 4 melanoma, one of which was operable. She underwent a craniotomy that successfully removed one tumor, but the second, inoperable tumor presented ongoing challenges. Seeking alternatives to radiation, Meredith’s network led her to an expert at MD Anderson who proposed immunotherapy, which effectively attacked the tumor. However, the treatment triggered severe side effects, including seizures and encephalitis, leading to a prolonged recovery.

Meridith’s year-long recovery has been marked by physical, mental, and emotional challenges. After seven more seizures in 2024, she focused on lifestyle changes to support brain health. While returning to her previous fitness activities has been slow, she finds healing in nature, spirituality, and spending time with family. Her experiences have brought a new perspective on life, emphasizing gratitude, faith, and the importance of close relationships.

Meridith continues to navigate survivorship with regular scans and a profound sense of purpose, offering encouragement to others facing similar struggles. She believes in the power of hope, community, and finding joy in life’s small moments, even amidst adversity. Her message is one of resilience, emphasizing that light and support can overcome even the darkest times.

Name: Meridith B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 43
Diagnosis:
- Melanoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptom:
- Seizure
Treatment:
- Surgery: craniotomy (to remove a brain metastasis)
- Immunotherapy