In March 1995, Laura was a fifteen year old schoolgirl studying for her GCSEs, when she became ill and was admitted to hospital. After removal of her left ovary, she was diagnosed as having an 'immature teratoma', a relatively uncomplicated form of cancer which can often be successfully treated. During her subsequent treatment at St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, further tests showed a very different scenario. Laura had four types of cancer, three of them very aggressive, and she became an extremely rare case.

From the outset Laura was a very special young girl, and those who knew her during her fourteen month illness were amazed at her cheerful courage, dignity and determination.
Despite all the obstacles her illness put before her, Laura lived every minute to the full, and crammed some great experiences into what was to be the last year of her life. She was fortunate in having a very loving and supportive family and some wonderful friends of all ages, who stood by her throughout her times of pain and indignity.
She also fitted in voluntary work in a local hospice and with disabled children.
In December 1995 Laura had further surgery, during which her right ovary, her womb and part of her bowel were removed, which meant that, had she lived, she would have been infertile...
Laura died in May 1996 just two weeks after her seventeenth birthday.