A Journey of Strength and Generosity
Laura Walker, a 42-year-old woman from Salisbury, has not only battled breast cancer but also made a significant impact by raising thousands of pounds for charity. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and community support.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Laura was diagnosed with grade three breast cancer a year ago, which marked the beginning of her journey through treatment. She discovered the lump herself, something she hadn’t done regularly before. “I found it on a Saturday, and I contacted the doctors on Monday,” she explained. Her quick action led to a referral to the breast clinic under the two-week wait system, ensuring timely care.
The city’s breast care unit, which opened in March 2017, played a crucial role in her treatment. Laura underwent a consultation, mammogram, and ultrasound at the clinic, followed by a biopsy that confirmed her diagnosis on June 21, 2024.
Her treatment included chemotherapy from July until October and surgery in December, both conducted in Salisbury. Due to complications with her chemotherapy, Laura participated in a proton beam therapy clinical trial in London. The trial provided her with accommodation in Camden, which was extended when she suffered a broken arm.
Fundraising Efforts
Despite the challenges, Laura remained committed to her fundraising efforts. She collaborated with several local organisations and businesses, including salon Smith England and women’s fitness class provider Girls Love Fit. “I decided to do the fundraising when I got diagnosed and I needed something to focus on,” she said. “It felt like the obvious thing to do.”
Laura began planning her fundraising activities immediately. Initially, when she started losing her hair, she had her hair cut by Ellie from Smith England, who donated it to the Little Princess Trust. In August, she hosted a ‘Bald and Beautiful’ party where she shaved her head with her son.
She also organised a fundraising Zumba evening and a ‘walk and talk’ in partnership with Girls Love Fit’s Alex Taylor. Additionally, she held a raffle backed by local firms such as Pickled Frog, Hixon, The Chapter House, Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm, Bluestone Vineyards, and Smith England.
Emotional Closure
Handing over the cheque for £4,313.98 to the Stars Appeal Breast Unit on June 26 brought a mix of emotions for Laura. “It has been a massive journey. I wanted to be able to show my children some level of strength throughout,” she said. Presenting the cheque was a small part of the closure of her experience, although her recovery is ongoing.
Laura plans to continue her fundraising efforts in the future. She encourages others to check themselves regularly and be their own advocates. “My lump was very obvious – I could feel it straight away – but I hadn’t been checking myself regularly. When I caught it, it was already grade three.”
Gratitude and Support
Laura has expressed her gratitude to the medical staff who treated her and to her family, including her husband Barry Walker and children Josh Thatcher, 23, and Grace Walker, 15. Lead specialist breast nurse Ruth Maconochie, also a Stars Appeal ambassador, praised Laura’s efforts. “We want to say a massive thank you to Laura, and to everyone who has so generously donated, for their wonderful support. The fantastic amount raised will make a huge difference and enable us to do even more to enhance the care we provide to our patients here at the Stars Appeal Breast Unit.”
Conclusion
Laura’s story highlights the importance of early detection, community support, and personal determination. Her efforts have not only raised funds for a vital cause but also inspired others to take action. As she returns to her job at South Wilts Grammar School and continues her baking business, Heavenly Cakes By Laura, she remains a beacon of strength and hope for many.
