Posts by Caroline O'Donnell
Meet the Models: Nicole Merhill
Nicole Merhill considers herself “the queen of referrals to Mass General Hospital.” It’s a title most would never strive for, but Nicole laughs when she reflects on how many people she has connected with the incredible medical team there. She knows first hand how impactful an amazing team of doctors is because she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, but not before an incredible few months of self advocacy.
Read MoreMeet The Models: Paul Fitzgerald
Paul was seven years old when his mom, a single mother, was diagnosed with breast cancer. The youngest of four, Paul understood very little about what was going on, but his mom tried her best to prepare her children for what was to come. She arranged therapy for them and had support in place, but while Paul’s siblings were able to comprehend their mother’s battle, Paul found her death, when he was just 12 years old, a complete shock.
Read MoreMeet the Models: Laura Allen
On January 3, 2020 Laura Allen got the call no one wants. It was from her doctor, letting her know she had stage 1 B breast cancer. At a time of year where people are focused on goal setting and fresh starts, Laura’s reality was one of shock and uncertainty.
Read MoreMeet the Models: Tara Runnals
Nine years out from her breast cancer diagnosis, Tara Runnals is reflective about how far she has come in her journey: “so much about breast cancer and the diagnosis is trying to get back to normal and rebuilding your body from intense treatment.”
Read MoreMeet the Models: Valerie Campbell
Val Campbell had a long day. It was Thanksgiving of 2016 and she had just spent the day eating and celebrating with family. She finally was able to crawl into bed late that night and much to her surprise, she felt a lump. She messaged her doctor and spoke with a nurse the next morning. “I went in on Black Friday and within a week, I got the call saying ‘it’s cancer.‘”
Read MoreMeet the Models: Melissa Eleey
“What I love about this group of women is that though breast cancer has affected us and our family’s so deeply, we also laugh a ton, joke around a lot and use it as fuel for positivity and to bring us joy.”
Read MoreMeet the Models: Hilda Parrott
At 66, Hilda is an incredible picture of health and style. Matched with her grace and confidence, one can’t help but be enamored with her. Her breast cancer journey is one of inspiration, proving that out of an unfortunate diagnosis can come incredible moments of life changing clarity.
Read MoreWhy We Rally: Connie’s Story
It sounds super cliche but my diagnosis was the best thing that ever happened to me. It forced me to take stock of what was really important to me and learn to count my blessings. It took some time for all of it to sink in, but it changed my life radically and all for the better.
Read MoreWhy We Rally: Becky’s Story
I often think that I do not have a story. But, when asked to share, I took some time to reflect on my journey. I am not sure it is possible to put into words how I have felt since receiving my diagnosis: grateful, guilty, scared, strong, anxious, hopeful to name a few but most of all loved and supported. I am so very blessed to be surrounded by my family and the most incredible people.
Read MoreGet Your Breasts Checked
Three years ago I walked out of the front doors of Mass General Hospital with a new baby- my third, George. He was ready to come home and I knew my time in the maternity ward had come to a close. My time at MGH, however, would be far from over; in fact, the hospital and I have a long history and a forever future in front of us.
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