Tributes have been pouring in for a Barrowford woman who has died of brain cancer, aged 23.
Laura Nuttall had been battling a highly invasive type of brain cancer called glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) since 2018.
Her mum, Nicola, made the sad announcement on Monday (May 22) and said Laura was “fierce and tenacious” until the end.
Laura was told she only had a year to live, when she was diagnosed with cancer aged 18.
Determined to defy the odds and make the most of every day, Laura spent years completing a bucket list which included graduating from university, meeting the Lionesses, and taking to the stage with comedian Peter Kay.
The inspirational woman made a huge impact on many people’s lives and thousands of people have left tributes about her.
Laura’s father, Mark, said: “Nicola, Gracie [Laura’s sister] and myself are so very proud of her and what she achieved in her short life.
“Her flame burned so brightly, unfortunately not nearly for long enough.
“She leaves a chasm behind and we now have to find some way of filling that void. But we will and and we’ll continue to support the charities and beliefs which were very important and dear to Laura.”
Professor Jackie Carter, from the University of Manchester where Laura earned a degree in politics, philosophy and economics, said: “She was an incredible and spirited young woman. With her treatment, she defied all the odds after her diagnosis to complete her studies and graduate last summer.”
“I got to know Laura and her amazing family well during her time here, as my own son has incurable brain cancer.
“I’ll never forget her telling me when we were raising money together at Manchester Pride that she wanted people to know who she was as a person, and see her determination, rather than just being seen as someone with cancer.”
Pendle MP, Andrew Stephenson, said Laura did work experience in both his Nelson and Westminster offices, shortly before she went off to university.
He said: "I feel so very grateful to have got to know Laura.
"She did work experience in both my Nelson and Westminster offices shortly before she went off to university [before her diagnosis].
"It is typical of Laura that she responded to what could, and for most of us would, have been the most devastating news imaginable by dedicating herself to raising awareness of brain tumours, and to achieving as much as she could in what time she had.
"It has been inspiring beyond words to see the support of her family as Laura fought the tumour for five long, hard years.
"Laura fought so well to have that time and to make the most brilliant use of it. I was so, so proud of her when she did graduate with a 2:1 from the University of Manchester. She was planning to do a master's degree next.
"Laura has done a huge amount to draw attention to brain tumours and research into them.
"To Laura, you will be deeply missed by so many people including me and my team.
"Thank you for never giving up and inspiring so many people in how you lived."
Actress Diane Morgan, Known for After Life and Motherland, recorded a video message for Laura when she was ill.
She said: "I’m so sorry. I feel like I got to know her a little bit through your posts.
"She was an amazing person. I could see that. And she couldn’t have had more loving parents. Sending you tonnes of love and support."
The Lionesses even left a tribute and said: “We're so sorry to hear this. Sending all our love to you and your family.”
Chloe Kelly, who plays for the football team and who met Laura last year, said: "Your smile lit up the room and the smile sticks with me still today, your positivity and fight was and is so inspiring.
"May you rest in peace you amazing woman."
In a statement The Brain Tumour Charity said: “Laura had a special place in the hearts of all our Young Ambassadors, themselves an integral part of The Brain Tumour Charity.
“They help us to raise awareness of brain tumours and are passionate about changing the future for those affected. Laura became key to the group’s continued success.
“Her loss is a fierce reminder of why we must move further, faster every day in the battle against brain tumours, so that other families do not have to endure this kind of heartbreak in the future.
“We are committed to fighting for all those people whose lives are turned upside down by this devastating disease. We will continue to do this for everyone affected, and we will continue to do this to honour Laura.
“She was unique and she was loved by so many.”
Dozens of our readers have left messages in our online book of condolences.
John Eaves said: “What a beautiful and truly inspirational young woman Laura was.
“Her parents must be so proud of her. May she rest in peace free from pain.”
Jane Calway and all of the Leach family said: “Devastated for all the Nuttall family today. Sending huge love to all of you.”
Roger Bailey said: “I know the fight you have had. Our children were on the same path, both beautiful, strong and fighters .. my love to you all.”
Norma Bradshaw said: “I am so sorry to hear of Laura’s death. She was an inspiration and so very brave. Rest in peace, beautiful girl.”
Zara Taylor said: “Rest in peace Laura.
“Your legacy will never be forgotten. You’ve given me such strength to continue fighting even when I think I can’t anymore.”
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