meet nicole

(Pictured left to right) Joe Betcher, Nicole, Charlotte Houle and Mike Houle

After losing several members of her family to cancer, Nicole decided to get tested for the BRAC1 gene. This gene puts women at higher risk of being diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer. The result was positive. So, in June 2018, at age 35 she decided, in order to prevent the same fate as her relatives, she would endure a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy.

Sadly, in June 2022, despite doing everything she thought was right she found out that she had stage 4 primary peritoneal cancer. She is unfortunately in the 1% of women who still contract this disease despite taking preemptive measures. Since then, she has undergone 9 rounds of chemotherapy, and multiple treatments and surgeries to combat the disease.

Prior to this diagnosis she had moved to the west side of the state, away from most of her family and support system. Her mother and co-workers have been there through her treatments. But she had been unable to work for some time, after using up the PTO she had with the school system, she was terminated. And being a single mom of two teenagers, her finances were draining.

Today, Nicole is on a maintenance drug, she may need chemo again in the future, but she is a warrior and finally getting back on her feet. She found a new position in community care and is focused on spending time with her children. She will continue with treatments and bravely fight through this journey.

Meagan’s Way Foundation will be by her side. The Foundation recently provided Nicole with financial assistance, legal aid, personal support and transportation if needed, along with a promise to be a source of support along the way.

Stay tuned for more details on an upcoming fundraiser in Nicole’s honor.