A mother received a stage-three bowel cancer diagnosis after her low iron levels were detected during a blood donation attempt.
Laura Jackson’s doctor recommended further investigation due to her low iron levels. Following two positive FIT tests, she underwent a colonoscopy and gastroscopy in May 2025.
Despite attributing her tiredness to her busy schedule, Laura had occasional diarrhea episodes in the year before her referral. Subsequent medical examinations revealed a 5cm tumor in her large intestine, leading to a bowel cancer diagnosis. She underwent a three-hour surgery in July 2025, during which a third of her bowel was removed.
After biopsy results showed cancer deposits in her veins, Laura’s diagnosis was upgraded to stage three. 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 experience, Laura emphasized the importance of early detection through screening tests like the FIT test.
Initially flagged for low iron levels during a blood donation, Laura underwent colonoscopy and gastroscopy after two positive FIT tests. Despite feeling only tiredness, Laura later discovered the tumor in her large intestine.
Following surgery and chemotherapy, Laura is now in remission but will undergo five years of surveillance. She shares her story online to raise awareness about the importance of early cancer detection.
To connect with Laura and learn more about her journey, you can follow her on TikTok @itslauraunfiltered.
