In 2016, Meredith underwent a 19-hour surgery to remove a tumor from her lower spine and had hardware placed in her back. The surgery was successful, and she was doing well for several years. However, in 2020, the hardware failed, creating a tunnel between her bowels and spine that led to a life-threatening infection affecting her brain and spinal cord.

Since then, Meredith has undergone six brain surgeries, two neck surgeries, and multiple abdominal and spinal surgeries. During her recovery, she had to completely relearn how to walk. She progressed from being a full-time wheelchair user to using a walker, then crutches, and now gets help from her service dog, Thanos, for mobility assistance.

Thanos is a big, goofy Great Dane with an important job. As Meredith's mobility service dog, he assists with balance, bracing, retrieving dropped items, and many other daily tasks. In addition to his service dog training, Thanos is also a certified therapy dog. He understands the difference between working as Meredith's service dog and visiting others in a therapy setting. When he's not working, he enjoys agility and showing off his fun personality.

If you see Meredith and Thanos around the facility, you're welcome to ask Meredith about her journey and admire Thanos from a distance. However, please ask before petting him, he may be in his service dog mode.

Today, Meredith serves as Jackie's Head Trainer. She teaches a wide variety of classes, including Agility, Service Dog Training, Obedience, Specialty Classes, and Behavior Modification. She also conducts private lessons and evaluations and helps manage Jackie's social media presence. Meredith is passionate about helping dogs and their people succeed and truly loves what she does.