Meg Thorburn: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal
By Stacy Hall
1/17/25
Meg Thorburn’s story is one of indomitable spirit and transformation. Born in California, Meg built a remarkable career as a veterinarian and epidemiologist, ultimately becoming a professor at a veterinary school in Canada. Along the way, she earned a DVM and a PhD, lived in Sweden during her doctorate research, and played semi-professional jazz bass, showcasing her versatility and passion for life. Now residing in Canada with her partner, Lorenz, Meg’s journey took an unexpected turn in 2003, when she was diagnosed with uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) at the age of 48. Now 70 and cancer-free for two decades, Meg reflects on her life’s battles and triumphs with gratitude, grace, and a commitment to living fully.
Diagnosis and Early Challenges
Meg’s life was marked by ambition and adventure. As an accomplished off-road motorcycle racer, she was preparing for her second Canadian national championship when persistent pelvic pain led to her diagnosis. Initially misdiagnosed with fibroids, she underwent a vaginal hysterectomy. The procedure revealed the true nature of her condition: a rare and aggressive cancer, leiomyosarcoma.
“I was shocked and frightened,” Meg recalls. “But I quickly went into work mode. As an epidemiologist, I knew how to research, and I was determined to learn everything I could about this disease.”
Her knowledge and training allowed her to critically evaluate her treatment options. Despite pressure to undergo pelvic radiation, Meg’s meticulous research and consultations with multiple specialists led her to decline the procedure and to replace her gynecologic oncologist with a sarcoma specialist. “I needed to make decisions that felt right for me,” she says. “It wasn’t an easy path, but it was my path.”
Surgical Battles and Perseverance
Between 2003 and 2005, Meg endured three major abdominal surgeries with the last being January 2005. Each procedure presented unique challenges, from navigating misaligned medical opinions to coping with grueling recoveries. Her final surgery, a 10-hour ordeal performed by a leading abdominal surgeon, was a turning point. Although the surgeon couldn’t guarantee clean margins and was quite pessimistic, the cancer never returned.
Meg’s resilience was tested not just physically but emotionally. “After my first recurrence, I went to a very dark place,” she shares. “But I realized anything was better than staying in that darkness, that the fight was about more than survival.”
Throughout her journey, Meg found solace and strength in her road motorcycle, Bella. She vividly recalls the day she received her diagnosis, riding Bella through the countryside to clear her mind. “That ride was a moment of connection and calm for me,” she says. “During the winters when I couldn’t ride, I would still visit Bella in the coach house, placing my hand on her and reminding myself that we were going to be okay.” Bella became a symbol of freedom and hope, a steadfast companion during some of her darkest days.
Finding Strength and Purpose
A pivotal moment in Meg’s recovery came through a program called The Healing Journey. This spiritually grounded initiative taught her to manage her emotions, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of peace. “I had to confront my Type A personality,” she says. “I learned to let go of judgment and ego, and to focus on living well, regardless of how much time I had left.”
Meg also drew strength from her athleticism. A lifelong competitor, she turned to cycling and duathlon races, eventually representing Canada in her age group at the World Championships. “Athletics gave me a sense of control and identity when so much else felt uncertain,” she explains.
Support Systems and Lessons Learned
Meg’s journey highlighted the importance of having a supportive health team and a network of loved ones. She credits Lorenz and her “dirt bike family” for being her anchors during the toughest times. “The support I received was incredible,” she says. “Even people I barely knew showed up in meaningful ways.”
Yet, she also experienced the phenomenon of “bolters,” friends who distanced themselves. “They likely acted out of fear”, Meg reflects. “While it was painful, I learned to forgive them and focus on the people who chose to join my journey.” She fondly recalls the many “angels”, unexpected individuals who appeared and provided just the right kind of support. “The angels weren’t always my closest friends. Sometimes they were acquaintances or strangers, but they knew exactly what to do”.
Life Today and Messages of Hope
Today, Meg is thriving. While she no longer rides motorcycles, she channels her energy into cycling and running, often logging thousands of miles a year. She’s also a passionate volunteer, running two large bicycle clubs and inspiring others with her story.
For those newly diagnosed, Meg offers this advice: “Build a strong health team, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Use the ‘cancer card’ to prioritize your needs unapologetically. Most importantly, find small joys every day and focus on what keeps you grounded.”
Meg’s journey exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit. Through research, community, and a relentless pursuit of joy, she has transformed her life into a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles. “Cancer changed me,” she says, “but it also brought me to a place of peace and purpose. And for that, I am deeply grateful.”
