In 2002, Writer’s Relief got a little bit brighter and bolder. That’s when Meg Rosenfield decided her boys were old enough for her to rejoin the workforce, and we were the lucky bunch she chose to join.
Meg had her BA in political science from William Paterson University, and for sixteen years her career included working for General Electric, the St. Catherine Center for Children, and Cairns and Brothers, Inc. She spent twenty years busily raising five children, participating in PTO and Boy Scouts, teaching religious education, and baking cupcakes for every fundraiser. And Meg soon applied that “roll-up your sleeves and get to it” attitude along with her organizational skills to everything she did here at Writer’s Relief—all with a smile and her sharp, clever wit.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Meg spent many years raising her family in Teaneck, NJ. In 2017, she moved to California to join one of her sons in San Diego. She considered retiring for about two minutes, but what would we do without her? Thankfully, Meg continued to work remotely for Writer’s Relief, giving us access to her incredible mental catalog filled with details about clients and work procedures. If we asked Meg, “Do you remember this client or that client from years ago?” she would always respond, Of course I do!
A strong believer in animal rescue, Meg adopted several older dogs and gave them their wonderful forever home. Sneakers, Jett, and Molly all found love, good walks, and tasty treats with Meg!
Meg also enjoyed traveling. She visited England, Western Europe, and had a memorable vacation in Iceland. And Meg was never one to shy away from supporting causes she believed in—she’d be right in the front lines of the march. She also kept a watchful eye on politics and was ready to hold politicians accountable.
Meg was diagnosed with cancer in the late 1990s, 2000s, and again recently. Each time, she met the news with determination and bravery. Sadly, Meg passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2019.
Thank you, Meg, for being quick with a laugh…for always being positive and pleasant…for generously supporting us as we learned the ropes you knew so well here at Writer’s Relief…for sharing your days and talents with us for seventeen years…and for being one of the best friends and coworkers we could ever hope to have. Your life was well lived and an inspiration to everyone you met.
We are humbled and honored to have known you, Meg, and you will be missed by all of us. We cherish our memories of you.
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O stay your soul and leave my heart its song
O stay your hand, the journey may be long.
And when we part and sorrow can’t be sway’d,
Remember when, and let your heart be staid.
— Omnia Sol, Z. Randall Stroope
We welcome you to share your condolences or memories of Meg in the comments section below.
Thank you, Meg. I couldn’t have asked for a better colleague and friend. Thank you for sharing 17 years of days with me. Thank you for all you contributed to my working life and my personal life. It hurts when I imagine the world without you. Instead, I will keep our shared memories close to my heart. I will miss you every day.
I will miss Meg and how she could use humor to change any challenge into something bearable. You contributed so much to Writer’s Relief, and brought good things to the world.
Meg was an amazing woman and a strong character. She was a fighter and an absolute pleasure to work with. I can only share my deepest sympathy with her family and all the lives that Meg has touched in her life. She’ll never be forgotten.
I didn’t have much of a chance to get to know Meg since I was hired only about 4 months when she left Writer’s Relief. However, in that short time, I got to see how special Meg was to everyone. She was always hilarious, adding her wit and sharp sarcasm to the conversation like a whippet. Her tenacity and strength astounds me. I look to the little notes she left, and I laugh because I know exactly how she would say it with classic Meg attitude. Rather, Megitude. I really wish I could’ve gotten to know her more, and I wish I were able to give her a goodbye hug, as well as a thank you hug for all her help in my first few months at Writer’s Relief. Thinking of you, Meg!
Meg was the first person who greeted me when I came in for my interview with Writer’s Relief. At the time, I had tickets to see Hamilton on Broadway. Meg had also seen it and loved it, so after I saw it (and loved it too), we were able to rave about it together. She was also one of my favorite people to talk politics with.
She was always friendly, but also fierce and fabulous. When she moved to San Diego, she would always tell me about the books she was reading in her book club, the plays she would go see, and the social gatherings she attended. She would also send me Christmas cards every year, which I thought was lovely.
I’m sad she’s gone, but she lived a life worth celebrating.
I started working at WR in October of 2014 and had the good fortune to share a room with Meg for a good chunk of time until she moved to San Diego. I remember one particularly trying day when I was completely stressed out, but Meg was calm and soothing, as usual. I asked her how she kept her cool all the time. She told me that because she had battled and beaten cancer, the kinds of things that we dealt with at work just didn’t even begin to bother her. Talk about putting things in perspective. I have never forgotten those words. She was so patient with my many questions about various tasks. She was also really funny. She and Carol and I laughed often in the corner office. I will always treasure my memories of her. Cheers, Meg. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
“And if you were with me tonight,
I’d sing to you just one more time
A song for a heart so big,
God wouldn’t let it live.”
It was a gift to know you. Thank you for everything, especially in regards to encouraging my career as a nurse.
May angels lead you in <3
– Peri
Meg was very funny, kind, patient, and encouraging. I’m very glad that I had the opportunity to work with her. Best wishes to her family and friends during this difficult time.
Meg, you were the first person I met at WR and I instantly loved your attitude and humor. Getting to know you has been so pleasant and truly an honor. You bring out the best in people. I still remember making our send-off video when you were headed to CA. You’re one of the strongest people I’ve ever met. Each day you’d bring such positive energy and were an invaluable member of WR. Always ready to lend a hand and share knowledge. I’ll miss our Slack chats. You made such a strong impact at WR and it’s warming to know that clients cherish you as much as we do. You are truly missed.
I have so many wonderful memories of Meg! It is an honor to have known her and consider her a good friend. Meg would stop whatever she was doing to help anyone, and she taught me so much. She would always make me feel better when I made a mistake and was all upset over it, calmly saying “It’s okay. We’ll fix it, Jen”. I’m thinking of Meg with a smile and I’m glad we met. One is my favorite Meg memories: One day I asked Meg what she had planned for the weekend and she mentioned that she and a friend were going to NY. I said “That sounds fun! What do you have planned?” Meg said “We’re going to a protest march”. I said “You are?” And Meg said “I love protests, Jen!” I will miss you very much, my friend.
I started working at Writer’s Relief just after Meg left the office to work remotely. I’m sorry to have never had the opportunity to meet her in person, but she was a force of nature and that was apparent from the moment we met, even if she was all the way out in California. She laughed easily but was also unflappable, and I always liked and admired her deeply for that. It’s hard to imagine a Writer’s Relief without Meg, and she’ll be sorely missed by all.
I recently joined Writer’s Relief, and even though she wasn’t currently working at that time, Meg’s was one of the first names I heard. I could tell by the way people talk about her, that she was genuine and kind. The bond she had with everyone here is very apparent and strong. I’m sad that I was not there to benefit from knowing someone like her. But she has left a mark on the people closest to her. No one will ever forget her, and in this life, that’s really all you can ask for. I’m praying for her family during this tough time. May Meg rest in peace and love.
Even though I never worked directly with Meg I feel as if I’ve know her for years. It has been clear that Meg was part of the heart of Writer’s Relief, that she had a hand in shaping it into the organization that I’m proud to call my work home for several hours each day. She serves as a great example of how to live your life to the fullest in good times and in bad. Thank you, Meg, for the example you set.
It was an honor to work with Meg. Every experience I had with her showed just how kind, funny, and smart she was. She brought an amazing energy to Writer’s Relief and it was clear how deeply she cared about helping writers succeed. She was a brilliant person who was so well-loved and it showed through her kindness and helpfulness. There can be no replacement for her and may God watch over her family and friends during this difficult time. Heaven gained another angel.
Meg was an incredibly kind person. She always had a smile on her face and was always in high spirits. I’m glad that I had a chance to work with her, and I will cherish the time that I have spent talking to her. She will be greatly missed.
I only knew Meg through email, but even that was enough to understand what a kind-hearted and life-giving person she was. She made my day every time our paths crossed. I am grateful for all she has done with her beautiful (one true wild) life.
I am saddened to hear of Meg’s passing. Whenever I think of my experiences with Writer’s Relief, I instantly associate them with Meg’s name. I am sorry for your loss, those of you who worked with her in the office for so long. Rest In Peace, Meg.
Meg was the very first person I spoke to at Writer’s Relief. Her years of experience and knowledge made her my go-to person whenever I had an especially perplexing question. And she was a big part of why our corner office was always so well decorated for the holidays—especially Halloween! I’ll never forget her Elf on the Shelf costume. Whenever Meg came in for the day, I would yell MEG! And she always yelled back CAROL! I think of you every day and miss you very much, Meg.
Oh so sorry to hear about Meg’s passing. She was every writer’s cheerleader, and when I shared good news she always made it seem as if it was her good news too. I remember when she took sick and then came back to work. It was a great “Writer’s Relief” moment Please send my deepest condolences to everyone who has been touched in some way by Meg’s great spirit. Loren
I know I met Meg after the years that Writer’s Relief edited my poems and stories; I am sure she had a hand in helping me. I say thank you for being you.
So sad to hear of Meg’s passing. She was very encouraging when my 82-year old father was starting his writing life. When he told her he had been referred to WR by me, and did she know me? And Meg told my dad “Of course I do!” and added that I was one of WR’s short story stars. So sweet. He was proud. And I, being susceptible to flattery, re-enlisted with the service after a long pause.
Sorry for your loss
When I first met Meg, she said, “Oh you’re Mary!” in reference to me being the first WR client. And I wasn’t quite sure if she meant that as a good or bad thing (good of course)! She always had a kind word or funny comment, when I called the office and she answered. Whenever I visited the office before I moved to Texas, she was always one of the first to greet me and give me a hug. I cherish her so much for the wonderful, powerful impact she had on my best friend, Ronnie’s, business and for being such a great, true friend to her. I feel saddened for WR and all who knew and worked with Meg. Yet, it is so moving to read these posts from people and understand even better how many lives she touched with her love and friendship. Fly far and wide in Spirit, Meg.
I’m so sorry to learn of Meg’s passing. I remember that she was my liaison for WR when I first began, and she was so kind and helpful. What a loss for Writer’s Relief. My condolences to her family and the whole team at WR,
Abby
I didn’t know her, but I wish I had. She must have been a wonderful person to have so many care about her.
I am a client and never met Meg, but before she left she was the first person I worked with at WR. I was sorry to hear she was leaving, even though we had a telephone and email relationship, one can sense something special about certain special people. I am sorry for her family’s and WR’s loss.
Meg was the first person I spoke with after starting to work with Writer’s Relief on my stories last fall. She was generous and knowledgeable about short stories, the literary market, and writers. She must have given me 45 minutes on the phone to ask questions about WR and to share our common interests in literature. I am so sorry to hear of her passing, but her family can rest assured that she will be remembered well.
I am so sorry to learn that wonderful Meg has died. I never met her but remain eternally grateful for all the hard work she did for me and so many other fellow struggling writers through Writer’s Relief.
Several years ago when I was submitting short stories, Meg was a great help. Not only her advice but her voice. Calm and intelligent.
I loved Meg. I could feel her vibrant spirit in emails and via phone— she gave me faith in my work, celebrated my writing’s successes and was infinitely kind and patient with me. Rest easy, Meg
I remember Meg as being so warm and capable. So sorry to hear this news.
I am a former client and I knew Meg though phone and email contact and what I remember was a kind and welcoming person a warm and clear presence for a new writer client.
Though I never met Meg, I followed her earlier sufferings and sent a western cowboy
post card and other oddities to cheer her. Most recently she cheered me, several times,
with great kindness and humor. I felt she was a friend.
My deepest sympathy and my thoughts are with Meg’s family, with Ronnie, and with the staff and writers Meg worked with at Writer’s Relief.
When I think of Writer’s Relief, I always think of Meg. I am so sorry to learn of her passing. She was a true friend with a kind word and helpful advice that enabled me to actually begin publishing my first stories. She had a wonderful spirit and she will be greatly missed.
When I think of Writer’s Relief, I always think of Meg. She was kind and helpful, with a wonderful spirit
that enabled me to have the confidence to publish my first stories. She will always have a special place in my heart. A true friend and a great loss.
I called to ask a question more than once when I could have figured it out for myself, but I just wanted to talk with Meg
How sad to learn of Meg’s passing. I’m a new client and beyond a doubt, Meg being Meg was a major factor in my decision to continue working with WR. What an impressive example for us all.
So sorry to hear about this. Meg was so patient and nice on the phone with me. Always a pleasure to talk to, and very knowledgeable about what it’s like for a writer to have to shape a public persona and “get out there.” Very supportive, and a lovely person. I’m sorry we didn’t get to meet, and send heartfelt condolences to WR and her family.
Meg touched my life and my writing from time to time over the last eight or nine years and she was always a pleasure to work with. I’ll miss her kindness.
I am sad to hear of Meg’s passing. She was one of my first contacts at Writers ‘ Relief and I often called her over the years about many questions. She always called me back quickly, listened well, and spoke with research and wisdom. She provided stability and depth.
I am so sorry to hear of Meg’s passing. I remember her voice well from my earliest days working with WR and what I recall is someone who was always steady and kind, as well as incredibly knowledgeable. I know she will be missed. My deepest sympathies.
Very sad. Meg was the first person I spoke with and she was always so understanding and helpful.
Meg was a kind and gentle soul. She made every day fun with her easy manner and ready smile. We all lose one of the good ones!
Meg listened. She understood writers. I jumped for joy when I got her on the phone because I knew she would resolve whatever submission challenge I had. I will miss her sorely even though we only spoke a few times. I’m very glad to see her photos, which portray her so accurately. She was a beautiful soul, full of wit, wisdom, and the spice of a life well lived! Thank you, Meg! The world won’t be the same without you!
Only spoke to Meg on the phone once or twice, but got a strong impression of great warmth and wisdom in her. Sad for all who were far closer to her. My heartfelt condolences….
I worked for Writer’s Relief for nearly 12 years, oftentimes it felt more like working with family and friends than with just people you were civil with.
Meg has always been there for me, giving sound advice whenever I needed it (both in the workplace and beyond). She also would provide me with car rides to work (after Superstorm Sandy and the office had to relocate), to the hospital to have important surgery, and to outings with other coworkers. During these times I would learn about her great spirit for politics, rescuing dogs, and enjoying a glass of wine. Many a Friday, a smaller group of WR staffers would go out to dinner, laughing and talking all evening–and those are some of my greater memories.
Meg was tough and a fighter (I witnessed her survive cancer TWICE), but this last battle–I guess–her body just had enough. I will miss Meg so much. My thoughts are with her family and the WR family during this time.
May Meg Rest in Peace. She sounds like she was a wonderful person. —- Suzanne
May Meg Rest in Peace. It sounds like she was a wonderful person. —- Suzanne
Thank you for brightening our world, Meg. Your lovely light will be sorely missed.
Meg! How can you be gone? Though we never met, you were at the end of the phone line so often for me, as an early client of Writer’s Relief, a fixture. You had all the answers! You figured out how I was able to accept multiple acceptances for stories so many times and get my work out there even more. You cheered me on and sent me so many generous emails of congratulations. For so long, you were my lifeline to WR and the world of publishing my creative writing. When I rejoined WR, I asked for you. I was missing you before you were gone and will continue to miss you. Sending deepest sympathy to your family. How great to have known you in person. Sending love to all who have Meg running through your veins. Meg, you will always be in my heart. And, in my mind, you’re still a phone call away. I just don’t have the number since you’ve gone unlisted. Perhaps we will talk again. In the meantime, I’ll keep you posted as best as I can. Sending you so much love.
I’ve known Meg since I was 8 years old. She’s always had this amazing way of lighting up a room with her huge smile and charm. I’ve loved every moment of her sarcasm and wit that always made me laugh. The dedication that she had to causes that she believed in inspired me to be active in politics. I loved having meaningful conversations with her about my life, societal changes and politics. I’m so grateful to have known Meg and I’m grateful for the growth she caused me to have as an adult. I will miss your wisdom, wit, and laugh. I will miss you.
Meg was a great person, always had a smile on her face, and a good sense of humor. I could go to her with anything and she had the answer. My prayers go to her family. I will miss her!
Like so many others are saying, Meg was the first person I talked to when I started work at Writer’s Relief, and I can’t say enough about her kindness and her welcoming nature. Her extraordinary combination of humor and heart is something I’ll never forget. Too, I’ll always be grateful for her unflinching support through my own mother’s death from cancer, and her telling me one day that she’d decided she was my unofficial second mother. That’s the sort of person Meg was–her heart knew no bounds. I am so lucky to have known her. My deepest condolences go out to her family.
As with so many o ther posters here, Meg was my first contact with Writers’ Relief. I echo everything everyone else is saying here. She was professional, kind, helpful. I had no idea about Meg’s cancer until reading this here. I loved seeing the photographs of the person I only knew through emails and over the phone. She left her mark on me, nevertheless. I am sad to hear of her passing.
I enjoyed working, and getting to know Meg over the years very much. She always brought her sharp wit, and sense of humor with her to the office every day. She made the heavier days feel lighter. I definitely miss the days of wandering over to her room, and gabbing about work along with a whole variety of other silly stuff. She was a riot. She will be very missed very much.
I’m so sorry to hear. It’s always hard losing part of your work family, you all are such a close group. I will hold you in my heart!
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Meg. Condolences to you all. Sending love and hoping that God will comfort you all.
I am crushed.
As a complete” newbie” two years ago I was vulnerable, ignorant, and intimidated. Meg’s kind, reliable, intelligent, advice and direction made the difference in the world to me. I look back over the last 24 months, at nine published stories, one published book under my belt that she and you helped me launch. I am all together aware the difference my team has made in my life.
I shared with Meg my risky questionable work. I made it a point to talk to her before taking every step and she read my stuff (sometimes off line) with a kind and critical eye. And not one word of her illness.
I’m already missing her thoughtful and sagacious nudgings.
I’m so sorry to hear about Meg. She was such a nice lady. My prayers are with you all.
I’m so sorry to hear this. I believe I worked with Meg at some time. I hope you and her family and friends find peace and comfort in telling wonderful “Meg stories.”
Wishing you the very best always,
Dale
I am so very sorry to hear this. I worked with Meg for several years and am surprised and saddened.
Please accept my sincere condolences to all at Writers Relief.
So sorry to hear about Meg’s passing. I spoke with her many times. Life is so filled with love and with sorrow.
Hugs to everyone.
Hi Ronnie- I am so sad to hear about Meg’s passing. She was a great person. I remember the film made for her when she left for California.
I am sad to hear of this loss. Thank you for letting me know.
I will light a candle for her and recall our conversations.
Blessings and gratitude,
Elizabeth
Just returned to find the very sad news about Meg.
What a terrible loss. I met her many times over the phone and was always impressed with her warmth and grace, and impeccable professionalism. Her health issues never darkened her spirit or her dedication to the many writers like me who were fortunate enough to benefit from her wisdom and generosity. R.I.P. dear Meg.
At 83 I’ve experienced a lot of “firsts” and “lasts” and some “in- betweens.” At the end of many days there are only a few “forevers.”
Meg is one of those whose humanity, compassion and wit will live in my heart forever.
My very best supportive thoughts to everyone at WR. In Meg’s spirit, we will move on with consciousness, with grace.
This saddens me. Many years ago Meg designed a website for me. I’m still using it. She was always helpful when I called and requested attention from her. And yes, she was so organized and efficient. She will be missed by all.
She was the first person to contact me from Writer’s Relief. I feel I owe her a lot. So sad. Josh G.
I remember Meg from working in the office for how she was always so unflappable: with clients and coworkers, and with her treatments too. I never heard her complain even though it sometimes appeared she didn’t feel well: she even marveled at the science behind her treatments with me while we were eating lunch, and she joked about them too. I really thought she was a wonderful example of how to go through difficulties with grace–and I suspect I didn’t even know the half of it. I’m glad I got to know her when I did; her friends and family are in my thoughts and prayers.
I really want to thank everyone for sharing all of their great memories of my mother. She was an incredibly positive person, as so many of you can attest to. She always loved her work, but I didn’t realize how many people felt the strong connection that has been described repeatedly in the comments, almost exclusively from phone and e-mail communication! I can confirm that the kindness and generosity described wasn’t a chore for her, but her natural inclination. Throughout her short third battle with cancer, I never heard her complain, and she died peacefully, surrounded by family and dogs.
What a steady and supportive hand she extended to a new author of advanced years. A warm source of humor, wisdom and encouragement. I’m missing her.
I was deeply sorry to read of Meg’s death.
I loved her voice and her warmth. She remembered me from 10 years when I did a few cycles of poetry with WR. She was so pleasant and encouraging and knowledgeable and funny. When she said she was taking a leave, I was immediately looking forward to working with her again. I barely knew her, yet feel this loss deeply. Such a beautiful spirit. Love and prayers to her family and pets. ox
I miss Meg’s kind and reassuring voice. Godspeed!
Meg was such an advocate and so reassuring. My deepest sympathy to her family and to all whose lives she touched. She was a special lady.
Meg was always encouraging, always knew what to say. She gave me excellent advice along the way, and if I got an acceptance, she was as excited as I was. She became a friend. Now she will be missed. RIP.