Laura is ready to tackle her next challenge head on
A Paisley cancer survivor is inspiring people to Race for Life at home next weekend and carry on the fight against the disease.
Laura Elliot, who recently completed treatment for thyroid cancer, is urging Express readers to run, walk or jog 5k to raise funds for Cancer Research UK on Saturday.
Laura, who recently celebrated her 33rd birthday with her twin sister Chell, knows exactly how important it is to keep raising funds for research into treatments like hers.
She said:“I couldn’t believe it when the consultant told me I had cancer.
“I went white and started shaking. I knew what he was saying but I couldn’t take it in.”
But the Buddie, who has already held her own walking fundraiser for the charity, added:“I’m certain that the treatment I received saved my life.
“That’s why I decided to support Cancer Research.
“I wanted to do what I could to give something back for the treatment that’s got me through this.”
At a check up with a consultant in September 2019 she was told she had papillary thyroid cancer.
The following month she started radioactive iodine treatment to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
She was given an iodine pill and then had to stay in complete isolation in hospital for two days while the radioactive treatment took effect.
Even on her return to her home, which she shares with her parents, she had to steer clear of everyone in the house for a few days.
And while she is recovering, Laura says her experience has had a significant impact on her mental health.
She has received help from the Rays of Hope cancer support group in Elderslie but admits she is still struggling with the long-term effects cancer has had on her life.
Laura and her family will be cheering on hundreds of people from across Renfrewshire who have vowed to Race for Life at Home either alone or in small, socially-distanced groups to raise money for life-saving research.
And Laura too has already been putting in the miles for the charity, having completed the Walk All Over Cancer challenge to walk 10,000 steps every day in March.
She said:“I want to help to make treatments better and kinder, ultimately to find a cure for this awful illness.
“I’d really urge others to support the charity too. Race For Life at Home is a fantastic chance to do something positive this month and raise money to help more people survive.”
To sign up for the Race for Life visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.