Shiela makes Stand against disease
A NEW mum who was diagnosed with cancer when her son was just eight months old is backing a campaign urging people to stand up to the disease.
Shiela Laramore, 33, was diagnosed with aggressive Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the white blood cells, on September 23 last year.
After enduring chemo and radiotherapy, she was declared cancer-free in May. Shiela, an RAF Association welfare officer from Dunbar, East Lothian, has been chosen as the face of Scotland’s Stand Up To Cancer campaign – a Cancer Research UK and Channel 4 fundraising initiative.
Backed by celebrities including Andy Murray, it aims to speed up the development of cancer treatments and tests.
Shiela, whose son Harry is now one, said: “Nobody should have to worry about not seeing their children grow up.
“When I first learnt I had cancer, I just sat there thinking, ‘That’s it. I’m going to die.’ It was very hard to take in. But I got through and I know research saves lives.
“That’s why I’m giving my heartfelt support to join the rebellion. Stand Up To Cancer raises money to speed up more effective treatments for people who really need it.
“Harry is my gorgeous, precious little boy and I’ll do everything I can to be the best possible mum for him. If I can make a difference and help others along the way then I’ll do it.”