A mother was diagnosed with stage-three bowel cancer after her low iron levels were identified while attempting to donate blood.
Laura Jackson’s physician decided to investigate further due to her low iron levels. Two positive FIT tests led to her undergoing a colonoscopy and gastroscopy in May 2025.
Despite only feeling tired, Laura disclosed experiencing occasional diarrhea up to three times in the year before her referral. Doctors discovered a 5cm tumor in her large intestine, confirming bowel cancer. She underwent a three-hour surgery in July 2025, during which a third of her bowel was removed.
Following biopsy results showing cancer deposits in her veins, Laura’s diagnosis was upgraded to stage three. Subsequently, she underwent four rounds of chemotherapy over 12 weeks starting in August 2025.
Currently, Laura is cancer-free but will be monitored for the next five years. Reflecting on her diagnosis, she expressed initial concerns about her family and raising awareness of the FIT test.
Initially barred from donating blood due to low iron levels, Laura’s subsequent FIT tests prompted further medical examinations. Despite feeling mostly fatigued, she attributed it to her busy life as a working mother.
Laura was surprised by her cancer diagnosis after her procedures. She underwent bowel resection surgery on July 3, 2025, following a CT scan to determine the cancer’s stage.
While recovering, Laura focused on physical fitness, walking 10,000 steps daily. After her surgery, her cancer was reclassified to stage three, leading to chemotherapy treatment.
Laura emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and early symptoms. After completing treatment, she is now cancer-free but will be monitored for remission over the next five years.
By sharing her journey online, Laura hopes to raise awareness about the importance of early detection through FIT tests. She credits her GP for saving her life and encourages others to seek medical advice if needed. Follow Laura on TikTok @itslauraunfiltered for more updates.