Buffalo, N.Y. — Meredith Roberts, a 17-year-old swimmer from North Tonawanda, has much to celebrate this Thanksgiving after receiving a life-saving liver transplant. Just weeks ago, Meredith was rushed to the hospital due to acute liver failure, a shocking turn of events that has transformed her holiday season into one of gratitude and hope.
Meredith’s medical crisis began in late October 2023, when she 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. The situation escalated quickly, and medical personnel informed her family that she was in liver failure. Following a rapid decline in her health, she was transferred to UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, where doctors determined she required a liver transplant.
Just over three weeks later, Meredith received a new liver from a younger donor whose identity remains unknown. In a heartfelt gesture, she has already written a letter to the donor’s family expressing her gratitude. The family will have the option to connect with her, should they choose to do so.
Intensive Recovery and Support
The recovery process is intensive and necessitates long-term care. Meredith will remain in Pittsburgh for at least another six to eight weeks, where she is receiving comprehensive support from the hospital staff. “This hospital is very proactive,” said Sara Roberts, Meredith’s mother. “Every medication, every detail — they teach her everything. It’s a lifelong change, and they’re making sure she’s prepared.”
As part of her recovery, Meredith is already walking laps around her hospital unit to rebuild her strength. “I’m not yellow and jaundiced anymore,” she said proudly, reflecting on her improved health. Her mother added, “It’s an incredible gift — a gift we never wanted to need — but if we had to go through this, she has quite the army around her.”
Community and Team Spirit
Alongside her recovery, Meredith continues to support her favorite sports team, the Buffalo Bills. She received a surprise jersey from Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas and his wife, Patty, who reached out to offer their support. “They’re so kind and down to earth. We can’t thank them enough,” Sara noted.
As Meredith walks the hospital hallways wearing No. 34, she is met with encouragement from Pittsburgh fans, including her nurses, who proudly display their hometown gear. This blend of community support and personal resilience is helping Meredith navigate her challenging recovery while fostering a spirit of hope and gratitude this holiday season.
