LAURA KERRIGAN
From breast cancer to national swimming podiums: Laura’s journey is unstoppable. In April 2020, at just 34 years old and in the midst of lockdown, Laura was diagnosed with stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer. Throughout it all, Laura kept moving.
Cancer Comeback of the Month: Laura
In April 2020, at just 34 years old and in the midst of lockdown, Laura was diagnosed with stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer. The following months were intense: five months of chemotherapy, surgery, and four weeks of radiotherapy, finishing active treatment just before Christmas.
Throughout it all, Laura kept moving. With guidance from a specialist oncology physiotherapist, she maintained an exercise routine that helped her cope with the brutal side effects of treatment and retain a sense of normality during a time that could have felt completely overwhelming.
A lifelong competitive swimmer, Laura returned to the pool a year after her diagnosis and raced again just one year after surgery. It took another year to rebuild her pre-cancer fitness, but five years on, she is swimming faster than she has in over a decade. This summer, she claimed silver at the Masters Open Water National Championships and is preparing for her biggest challenge yet: the 10km Dart Marathon Swim.
As Laura says, “Chemo was the most brutal journey of my life—but I’m really proud of how I navigated it. I’ve come back stronger and fitter than ever. I’m so grateful for this second chance at life, and I try to make every day count.”
Laura’s story reminds us that with courage, determination, and support, it’s possible to reclaim your passions and achieve new heights after life-altering challenges. Sharing her journey inspires others and offers hope to anyone navigating their own comeback.
