A mother received a stage-three diagnosis of colorectal cancer after her low iron levels were detected during an attempt to donate blood. Laura Jackson’s physician, concerned about her iron levels, conducted further investigations leading to colonoscopy and gastroscopy procedures in May 2025.
Despite attributing her fatigue to being a busy mother, Laura had not noticed any typical cancer symptoms except for occasional diarrhea episodes in the year prior to her referral. Medical examinations revealed a 5cm tumor in her colon, confirming the presence of colorectal cancer. Subsequently, she underwent a three-hour surgery in July 2025, during which a third of her bowel was removed.
Following a biopsy of the tumor, Laura’s cancer was upgraded from stage two to stage three due to the presence of cancerous deposits in her veins, indicating a risk of spreading. She underwent a 12-week “mop up” chemotherapy regimen after her surgery in August 2025.
Currently, Laura is cancer-free but will be monitored for the next five years. Reflecting on her diagnosis, the 39-year-old from Southampton expressed her initial fears and emphasized the importance of screening tests like the FIT test to detect cancer early. Laura’s journey began when she was turned away from blood donation due to low iron levels, leading to the discovery of her cancer through subsequent tests.
Throughout her treatment and recovery, Laura highlighted the significance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical attention for any unusual symptoms. Her proactive approach to treatment and recovery has been instrumental in her progress towards remission. Sharing her story online, Laura aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and screening for cancer.