A 36-year-old mom who inspired thousands to raise funds for her potentially lifesaving cancer treatments has died two years after she was diagnosed with the deadly disease following the birth of her daughter, theJersey Evening Postreported.
In March 2017, Laura Cafferty of the U.K. was diagnosed with terminal leiomyosarcoma, arare type of cancer that affects smooth muscle tissueand can form almost anywhere in the body. While a tumor was initially discovered in her leg just months after giving birth to her daughter, Maya, the cancer continued to spread after she underwent chemotherapy treatment. Doctors informed Cafferty and her husband, Karl, that the mother of one wouldhave only two years to live.
In an effort to save her life, more than 1,600 donors contributed nearly $100,000 to the family’sGoFundMepage.
“I have tried to remain so positive and battle through each week but with each knock back it’s shaken me a bit,” Cafferty, 36, wrote in an update in September 2017. “I am scared to get my hopes up. ”
She added: “The tests alone, without treatment, in UK and Germany are costing over [$26,000] so this would not be possible without your very generous donations.”
According to theEvening Post, Cafferty and her family would eventually visit Mexico twice for treatment and explored therapies in Germany.
GoFundMe
After the announcement, many left tributes to the mother of one on the family’sFacebook page.
“One of the most beautiful kindest, happiest, passionate, determined people I have ever met,” wrote Carla Inglis. “With a smile that lights up a room and a laugh that’s so infectious, our time working together will always be in my memories.”
Added Louisa Roberts Ferguson: “I’m heartbroken! What an unbelievable fight you fought Laura and when Maya is old enough to understand she’ll be so proud of what a strong mummy she had and how much she loved you and your daddy.
Funeral services would be held on April 9 near Cafferty’s home in Jersey, and the family has requested donations be made toJersey Cancer Reliefin her memory.
source: people.com
