A woman who initially sought medical attention for stomach pains was informed she had a urinary tract infection (UTI) but was later given a grim prognosis of five years to live. Laura Nixon, aged 59, had been experiencing severe stomach discomfort since being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in April 2024. Despite being prescribed antibiotics, her pain persisted, leading her to consult an out-of-hours doctor who suspected a UTI in January. However, after no improvement, Laura returned for further evaluation and was once again advised that it was still a UTI, with a reissue of antibiotics.
Assuming that medical professionals had been monitoring for cancer markers due to a previous gallbladder surgery, Laura eventually presented herself at the A&E in April, seeking relief from the pain. Following delays in scheduling a CT scan, Laura, planning a cruise with her mother, opted to undergo health screenings with her GP. Subsequently, her GP urgently recommended a colon scan after which, by 3.30 pm that day, Laura received the devastating news of stage four pancreatic cancer, with a life expectancy of five years.
Currently residing in Germany, Laura is preparing for alternative private transarterial chemoembolization treatment as opposed to NHS-provided chemotherapy. Expressing her sentiments, Laura, hailing from Windsor, Berkshire, emphasized her determination to remain positive despite the circumstances, focusing on cherishing each day and maintaining connections with loved ones.
Initially skeptical of the five-year prognosis, Laura believed she had a much shorter timeframe based on her tumor size and condition. Opting for private treatment, she embarked on fundraising efforts to cover the substantial costs, with significant financial support from her mother, who utilized her life savings for this purpose.
Laura detailed her treatment plan in Germany, involving procedures aimed at inhibiting tumor growth and managing pain. She acknowledged the sacrifices made to pursue this treatment, expressing gratitude towards her supportive GP and the community rallying behind her cause. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist in funding Laura’s treatment, garnering substantial contributions. While acknowledging the uncertainties surrounding the treatment’s efficacy, Laura remains resilient and hopeful, focusing on the present and embracing optimism for the future.