Laura Morgan, a mum from Neath, spent two years being told she was simply “chesty,” but her instincts said otherwise. Despite visiting the doctors over 20 times, her symptoms were dismissed as a chest infection. It wasn’t until she demanded to see another doctor that the real truth came out: she had been living with stage four lymphoma.
Laura’s journey began in late 2022 when she developed a persistent cough during pregnancy. Initially shrugging it off as due to damp conditions at home, her symptoms grew worse—coughs, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and more. But each trip to the doctor only yielded the same response: chest infection. Her medical notes even got mixed up several times, adding to the chaos.
Feeling unheard and fighting for answers, Laura kept pushing, finally meeting a doctor who took the time to listen. Within minutes, it was clear something was very wrong, prompting immediate tests and a CT scan. The results were devastating: advanced lymphoma.
Finding out about her diagnosis via a phone call while out with her children was a surreal, heart-wrenching experience. The delay in diagnosis meant her condition had reached an advanced stage, requiring intensive treatment and causing profound changes in her life and family dynamics. Her husband has had to step in as her full-time carer, adding financial strain to an already stressful situation.
Laura’s message to everyone? Trust your instincts. “If you feel that something’s not right with your body, don’t be afraid to speak up, ask for a second opinion, and keep pushing for answers. This journey could have been shorter and less painful if only they’d listened to me sooner,” she reflects.
Her friend Adele has created a GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden during this tough time. Laura wants her story to be a rallying cry for others to advocate for their health. She’s motivated by her family and driven by the hope of raising awareness so others don’t face the same challenges she did.
Let’s rally around Laura and her family, and spread the word about the importance of being your own health advocate. Stay persistent and always, always trust your gut. ❤️