Laura Parker, a 35-year-old woman from Wallasey, was faced with a life-changing diagnosis after initially believing she was dealing with a severe toothache. She started feeling unwell and noticed that she was bruising easily, so she visited the dentist. Despite thinking it was just an infection in her gums, her symptoms persisted, prompting her to seek medical help. After visiting her GP, Laura received the heartbreaking news that she had leukaemia.
Following her diagnosis last December, Laura underwent three rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Initially, her treatment seemed to be working, but things took a turn for the worse when the cancer spread to her bones. Laura was given a terminal diagnosis and had to undergo the amputation of a tumor the size of a size three football in August. Currently, she is under end-of-life care, facing the harsh reality of her prognosis.
Despite the devastating news, Laura has maintained a positive outlook on life. Her friend Becky Biddulph, who has been by her side throughout this journey, commends Laura for her resilience and positivity. Despite being told she only has a few months to live, Laura continues to spread joy and positivity to those around her. She has been described as a ray of sunshine amidst the darkness of her illness.
In an effort to support Laura and raise awareness for blood cancer, Becky organized a ’24-hour clubbathon’ event at the Soccer Dome. This dance-based workout in the dark with disco lights and glowsticks was followed by a family fun day, with all proceeds going to the Blood Cancer UK charity. Over 60 people participated in the clubbathon, and the event garnered significant community support, raising over £11,000 for the charity.
Becky was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and generosity from the community. What started as a small fundraising initiative turned into a massive community effort driven by Laura’s inspirational story. The event not only raised funds for a worthy cause but also helped raise awareness about blood cancer, which is one of the top five most diagnosed cancers worldwide.
Laura’s strength and positivity in the face of adversity have touched the hearts of many, inspiring others to come together and support those battling similar struggles. Through events like the clubbathon, Laura’s story continues to be shared, spreading hope and raising awareness for a cause close to her heart.
