Baby joy for terminally ill Chesterfield woman
Laura Bacon-Smith, 27, was told in 2010 that she had an extremely rare form of cancer which would kill her within six months - and despite outliving the original prognosis, the incurable diagnosis remains. Five years ago Laura underwent six gruelling months of chemotherapy, which doctors believed had rendered her infertile.
But in April this year, Laura and partner Lewis Neeves, 23, had the shock of their lives – after discovering she was expecting.
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Hide AdLaura, of Shirland Street, Chesterfield, said: “I didn’t think it was real – even after eight pregnancy tests.
“We were both in a state of total shock, we couldn’t believe it.
“I think we’re still in shock and neither of us will believe it until I’m holding that miracle baby in my arms.”
Laura, who is now six months pregnant, said all scans show their child is normal and healthy.
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Hide AdThe due date for their miracle – whose sex the couple are keeping secret – is New Year’s Eve.
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Hide AdLaura said: “I’ve always just wanted a normal life; a family, weekly shops, taking the children to the park.
“Some people might think that’s boring, but it’s all I’ve ever wanted and I never thought I’d have it.”
Laura said that only five people in the world are diagnosed with her type of cancer every year, which affects the lungs, liver, blood and soft tissue.
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Hide AdOwing to the rarity, Laura said medics are now unsure how long she has left to live – although the incurable diagnosis still stands.
She said she was devastated upon being diagnosed, but has always strived to stay positive.
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Hide AdLaura met Lewis just over a year ago, when he moved into her house as a lodger.
Within a few months love blossomed and the couple have been happy together ever since.
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Hide AdLaura, who used to work as a sales advisor, said: “I explained to Lewis straight away that, if he fell in love with me, we wouldn’t have much time together and we wouldn’t be able to have any children.
“Lewis said it didn’t bother him and that all he cared about was spending as much time with me as possible.”
She added: “Lewis is literally my best friend, as well as my partner and lover. As long as we have each other and our baby, everything else will fall into place.
“We will enjoy whatever time we have left as a family.
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Hide Ad“We are both so excited to welcome our child into the world.”
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Hide AdLaura has raised in excess of £5,000 for Weston Park Cancer Charity since her diagnosis, in gratitude for all the support they have given her.
HERE’S WHAT SOCIAL MEDIA USERS THOUGHT:
Rebecca Jones said: “What a sad and lovely story. I wish you all the very best and hope you enjoy been a mummy, it’s one of the best things ever.”
Kashryn Field said: “Laura, you’re making me an emotional wreck this morning. You are a true inspiration to so many, this baby is going to have so much love around it. Really happy for you both.”
Kayleigh Williamson said: “Aww, bless.”
Michelle Turner said: “That’s a lovely outcome.”
Daz N Kat Martin posted: “Aww I love stories about miracle babies – makes me so happy for the family.”
Owen Pavey said: “Fantastic ‘against all odds’ story. Worth mentioning too that Laura has also raised lots of money for charity too.”