In 2006, Meri was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule which grew larger over time. While doctors recommended surgical removal, Meri declined, concerned about potential post-surgery fatigue and weakened immunity she had observed in friends with similar experiences. However, as the tumor continued to grow and caused a foreign body sensation, she realized she could no longer delay treatment. A friend recommended Fuda Cancer Hospital in Guangzhou, China, known for its minimally invasive treatments like microwave ablation therapy for thyroid tumors. Encouraged, Meri decided to seek treatment in China.
Just two days after the microwave ablation, the foreign body sensation disappeared, and her thyroid nodule shrank. For the beauty-conscious Meri, she could finally embrace wearing what she wanted without having to hide.