10/03/2025
Stephanie Fraser, MSW, knows her way around the health care system. At age 18, she underwent a kidney transplant. 28 years later, when that kidney failed, she received another—this time donated by Michelle Pierce, LICSW, her colleague at the UVM Cancer Center. In 2008, 3 years before the 2nd transplant, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She underwent surgery and 6 cycles of chemotherapy, emerging as a survivor.
These experiences gave Steph a profound understanding of what patients endure during major procedures and treatments. She has channeled that insight into her role as an oncology social worker at UVMCC—becoming the first in that position at UVM Medical Center 25 years ago.
“Cancer was an educational journey for me,” Steph says. “It helped me understand what my patients were going through.”
Steph has since paved the way for others who share her passion for supporting and advocating for cancer patients. “Steph is my hero, and one of the most resilient people I know,” says Pierce. “She gives unwavering emotional support to her patients while seeking resources that may make their cancer experience a little more bearable."
Helping people is just one of Steph’s superpowers. The other is her tenacity. Since 1986, she has competed in the Transplant Games—a multi-sport event celebrating life after transplant. At her first Games, she medaled in 7 events. At the International Games in 1997, she earned a gold in cycling—beating both men and women. Cycling became her favorite event, and she has since raced to raise awareness and funds for health care causes.
Friday, October 3, 2025, marks Steph’s final day at UVMCC before she begins her next chapter: retirement. She plans to spend time in nature, return to photography—another of her passions—and volunteer.
“I never knew I was going to live this long,” she reflects. “But I’m here, doing what I love, and now I get to focus on myself.”
Pix courtesy of Steph Fraser
University of Vermont Health UVM Health - UVM Medical Center