Laura Elizabeth Mahon’s Glioblastoma Story: Diagnosed With Brain Cancer While Pregnant

At just 29 years old and 20 weeks pregnant, Laura Elizabeth Mahon began experiencing unusual symptoms that led to the discovery of an aggressive brain tumour. From the premature birth of her daughter Sienna to brain surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Laura shares the realities of motherhood, living with glioblastoma and making precious memories with her family.

When Pregnancy Symptoms Turned Out to Be Something Far More Serious

In September 2021, Laura Elizabeth Mahon was looking forward to becoming a mother.

At 29 years old, she and her partner Danny were expecting their first child together.

But one morning, while approximately 20 weeks pregnant, Laura woke up and realised she could not move the toes on her right foot.

Initially, she thought little of it.

Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and she wondered whether her symptoms were simply another part of carrying a baby.

However, the difficulties continued.

Over the following days, Laura began losing movement and sensation in her right leg. Walking became increasingly difficult.

What Laura initially believed might be pregnancy-related symptoms turned out to be something much more serious.

An MRI scan would reveal a brain tumour.

Laura was about to face an unimaginable situation: preparing for the birth of her baby while being told she had a potentially life-threatening illness.

Her eventual diagnosis was glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive, grade 4 brain cancer.

The First Signs Something Was Wrong

Laura’s symptoms began with changes to the movement in her right foot.

When the weakness spread into her leg, she became increasingly concerned.

She sought medical advice and was initially told that her baby might be pressing on a nerve.

This was a possible explanation for her difficulties, particularly during pregnancy.

But the symptoms did not improve.

Laura was referred to The Walton Centre in Liverpool for further investigations.

An MRI scan of her back did not reveal the cause.

Doctors then arranged an MRI scan of her brain.

It was during this investigation that everything changed.

The medical team noticed something concerning and carried out further imaging.

Laura was told that she had a brain tumour.

It was a devastating discovery, especially when her attention had been focused on preparing for motherhood.

At an age when she had expected to be planning for the arrival of her daughter, she was suddenly being confronted with a completely different future.

Discovering a Brain Tumour During Pregnancy

Receiving a brain tumour diagnosis is frightening at any age.

For Laura, being pregnant made the situation even more complicated.

Her doctors had to consider not only her own health but also the wellbeing of her unborn baby.

Treatment options were limited during pregnancy, and her specialist team needed to carefully assess the risks and benefits of different approaches.

As Laura’s neurological symptoms continued to worsen, it became increasingly difficult for her to walk.

She was also experiencing sickness and exhaustion.

The situation was deteriorating.

Laura and Danny faced decisions that no expectant parents could ever be fully prepared for.

They wanted to protect their daughter, but Laura urgently needed medical treatment.

After discussions with the specialist teams caring for them, they made the difficult decision to deliver their baby prematurely.

Watch Laura share her experiences in the Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show interview below, or continue reading her story.

Watch Laura Elizabeth Mahon’s Brain Cancer Interview on YouTube

The Difficult Decision to Deliver Baby Sienna Early

As Laura’s pregnancy progressed, her condition became increasingly serious.

By approximately 27 weeks, she was struggling to walk and was feeling extremely unwell.

Doctors discussed the possibility of delivering her baby at 30 weeks so Laura could undergo further investigations and treatment.

It was an incredibly difficult decision.

Laura wanted nothing more than to give her daughter the best possible start in life.

But delaying treatment was becoming increasingly dangerous for her.

On 30 November 2021, Laura gave birth by planned caesarean section at Warrington Hospital.

Her daughter, Sienna Grace Laura Mahon, arrived weighing just 3.4 pounds.

She was born around ten weeks early.

While Laura was recovering from the birth, Sienna needed specialist neonatal care.

The family had already endured so much uncertainty, but there were more challenges ahead.

Sienna’s Difficult Start to Life

Following her premature birth, Sienna was admitted to the neonatal unit.

She developed a pneumothorax, also known as a collapsed lung.

Because she needed a higher level of specialist care, she was transferred to Royal Oldham Hospital.

For Laura and Danny, this was an extremely distressing time.

Laura was recovering from a caesarean section while also coping with her own deteriorating neurological health.

At the same time, her newborn daughter needed intensive medical attention.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought additional difficulties.

Hospital visiting restrictions limited the support that family and friends could provide.

Laura and Danny found themselves travelling between hospitals, trying to be with Sienna while also attending Laura’s medical appointments.

Despite everything they were facing, their focus remained on their daughter.

Fortunately, Sienna gradually became stronger.

But Laura still needed answers about the tumour in her brain.

When Doctors Discovered the Tumour Had Nearly Doubled in Size

On 9 December 2021, Laura underwent another MRI scan.

The results were devastating.

The tumour had nearly doubled in size.

Doctors explained that it was affecting the motor cortex, an area of the brain involved in controlling voluntary movement.

Because of its location, attempting to remove the entire tumour could cause significant neurological damage.

Laura was told that the tumour was now considered inoperable.

Instead of attempting extensive removal, her surgical team planned a biopsy to obtain tissue for diagnosis.

The following day, she underwent the procedure.

Approximately 20% of the tumour was removed during the operation.

Although Laura had been hoping for more extensive surgery, the medical team had to balance the potential benefits against the risks to her neurological function.

It was another setback during an already overwhelming period.

Receiving a Grade 4 Glioblastoma Diagnosis at 29

On 22 December 2021, Laura received the results of her biopsy.

She had a grade 4 glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma is an aggressive form of brain cancer that can grow into surrounding brain tissue, making treatment particularly challenging.

At just 29 years old, and with a newborn baby still receiving hospital care, Laura was given a very limited prognosis.

Doctors told her she might have approximately two years to live.

It was devastating news for both Laura and Danny.

They had been looking forward to beginning their lives as parents.

Instead, they were being forced to confront difficult questions about how much time they might have together.

Christmas, normally a special time for the family, became overshadowed by uncertainty and fear.

Laura initially struggled with the idea of telling other people about her diagnosis.

She did not want to upset those around her or be treated differently.

But as time went on, sharing her experiences would become an important part of her story.

Getting Married After a Life-Changing Diagnosis

Laura and Danny had become engaged in April 2021.

Following her diagnosis, they decided to bring their wedding plans forward.

They wanted to celebrate their relationship and create meaningful memories with the people closest to them.

Their wedding was arranged for 6 January 2022.

However, just two days beforehand, Laura experienced her first seizure.

It was another frightening reminder of the effects of her brain tumour.

Fortunately, after resting and receiving medical advice, the wedding was able to go ahead.

Laura and Danny married in a small ceremony surrounded by family and friends.

The following day, they registered Sienna’s birth.

On 8 January, Sienna was christened in the chapel at Warrington Hospital.

Hospital staff helped make the occasion special, organising a celebration for the family.

Within a matter of days, Laura and Danny had celebrated their marriage and their daughter’s christening while continuing to navigate an uncertain medical future.

These occasions became precious milestones during a difficult time.

Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and Bringing Sienna Home

In January 2022, Laura began six weeks of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The treatment left her feeling extremely tired.

At the same time, Sienna was continuing to recover in hospital.

For Laura, the challenges of cancer treatment were happening alongside some of the most important moments of becoming a mother.

On 17 January 2022, Sienna was finally able to come home.

She weighed approximately five pounds.

It was a milestone the family had been waiting for.

After weeks of hospital visits, uncertainty and worry, Laura and Danny could begin spending time together at home with their daughter.

But the demands of brain cancer treatment continued.

Laura was dealing with fatigue and the emotional strain of living with a serious diagnosis while caring for a young baby.

Her experience highlights how brain tumour treatment affects far more than the patient alone.

It changes family routines, relationships and the everyday experiences that many people take for granted.

When Chemotherapy Had to Be Stopped

During treatment, Laura experienced problems with her liver function.

Her medical team had to stop chemotherapy temporarily while her liver recovered.

Chemotherapy medicines can sometimes affect liver function, which is one reason patients undergo regular blood tests during treatment.

After approximately a month, Laura’s liver function improved sufficiently for treatment to continue.

Although it was a setback, she was able to resume chemotherapy under the supervision of her specialist team.

At the beginning of April 2022, Laura received encouraging results from an MRI scan.

The tumour had stabilised and had reduced slightly in size.

After months of frightening news, it was a welcome moment of relief.

Finding Encouragement in Stable MRI Scans

During 2022, Laura continued chemotherapy and regular monitoring.

Treatment was not easy.

She experienced episodes of fainting associated with low blood pressure and periods of severe nausea.

There were times when eating became extremely difficult.

But follow-up scans initially showed encouraging results.

By September 2022, Laura had completed six months of further chemotherapy.

Her MRI scan showed that the tumour remained stable and had reduced slightly again.

For Laura and Danny, these results brought some reassurance.

They were able to focus more on family life and celebrate milestones together.

Sienna’s first birthday on 30 November 2022 was particularly special.

It was a moment Laura had once feared she might never experience.

Watching Sienna Grow and Creating Family Memories

For Laura, becoming a mother changed what mattered most.

She wanted to spend as much time as possible with her daughter and husband.

After everything the family had experienced, ordinary moments became especially meaningful.

They enjoyed days out, short holidays and spending time with loved ones.

Sienna continued to grow stronger following her premature birth and early health difficulties.

Watching her develop brought Laura enormous happiness.

But living with glioblastoma also meant dealing with uncertainty.

There were good days and difficult days.

Laura has spoken openly about the emotional reality of her diagnosis, including times when she felt frightened and overwhelmed.

Her experience is a reminder that people can appreciate positive moments while still finding their circumstances incredibly difficult.

There is no need to feel hopeful or strong every day.

When Glioblastoma Began Growing Again

Despite the initially encouraging MRI results, Laura faced further challenges.

In January 2023, a scan showed new activity in another area of her brain.

She was told the changes were small and had been detected early.

Her medical team recommended further chemotherapy.

However, towards the end of February, Laura began experiencing worsening headaches and another seizure.

An emergency MRI scan revealed that the tumour had grown and that there were additional areas of concerning activity.

The news was devastating.

After months of treatment and a period of stability, Laura and Danny were once again facing difficult decisions.

Recurrence is unfortunately common with glioblastoma, even after surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Treatment options depend on the individual’s circumstances, previous treatments and the location of the tumour.

For Laura, the available options were becoming increasingly limited.

Further Treatment and the Reality of Living With Glioblastoma

Laura continued exploring treatment options with her specialist medical team.

Her experience included further chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

In a personal fundraising update discussing her situation in early 2024, Laura explained that she had undergone radiotherapy for a second time and had received approximately 19 months of chemotherapy.

She also described further tumour progression and new activity on MRI scans.

These developments brought difficult decisions about what treatment might still be available.

For people living with recurrent glioblastoma, treatment can involve balancing possible benefits against side effects and quality of life.

Some patients may be eligible for further treatment or clinical trials, while others may have fewer options.

Laura and Danny continued to focus on the time they could spend together with Sienna.

These treatment details reflect Laura’s accounts from 2023–2024 and are not intended as an update on her medical circumstances today.

Keeping Memories for Sienna

One of the most moving parts of Laura’s story is the way she and Danny have worked to preserve memories for their daughter.

They began keeping a scrapbook filled with photographs, days out and family experiences.

Laura also created an online diary for Sienna.

Her hope was that, one day, her daughter would be able to look back and understand the love, effort and determination that shaped those years.

Laura wanted Sienna to know about the things they had done together and the work they had undertaken to raise awareness of brain tumours.

It was a deeply personal way of recording family life during a time of uncertainty.

For Laura, these memories were not only about special occasions.

They were about showing her daughter how much she was loved.

Making Milestones Matter

After receiving her prognosis, Laura began thinking about the milestones she wanted to experience with Sienna.

Her daughter’s first birthday became one of those important goals.

When that day arrived, it meant an enormous amount to the whole family.

As Sienna grew older, Laura began looking towards other milestones.

In an ITV Granada interview in May 2024, Laura spoke about wanting to see her daughter start school.

It was an example of how she was focusing on family life while living with an uncertain future.

For some people affected by a serious illness, setting personal milestones can provide something meaningful to anticipate.

For others, making plans may feel difficult or overwhelming.

There is no single right way to approach life after a brain tumour diagnosis.

Laura’s approach reflects her own priorities: being a mother, spending time with Danny and making memories together.

Raising Awareness Through Laura Down the Rabbit Hole

Alongside treatment and family life, Laura began speaking publicly about her experiences.

She shared updates through social media, including her account Laura Down the Rabbit Hole.

By sharing her story, Laura hoped to help other people understand the realities of living with glioblastoma.

Her experiences also drew attention to the difficulties of receiving a serious diagnosis during pregnancy.

Laura and Danny have supported fundraising and awareness activities for Brain Tumour Research.

They wanted to contribute to efforts to improve treatment options and increase investment in research.

Laura’s story has also been featured in the national media.

By speaking openly about her experiences, she has helped bring greater attention to the challenges faced by patients and families living with brain cancer.

Follow Laura Down the Rabbit Hole on Instagram

@lauradowntherabbithole_

The Importance of Research and Better Treatment Options

For Laura, raising awareness became particularly important as her treatment options became more limited.

Glioblastoma is one of the most aggressive primary brain tumours.

Although surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy may help control the disease, recurrence remains common and treatment options are limited.

Laura has spoken about her frustration at the level of research investment and the need for more effective treatments.

She and her family have supported Brain Tumour Research’s campaigning and fundraising work.

Their aim is to contribute to a future where patients diagnosed with brain tumours have more treatment options and better outcomes.

Her experience shows why the voices of patients and families are so important in raising awareness of this disease.

Important Takeaways From Laura’s Glioblastoma Story

There are several important messages within Laura’s experience.

• Brain tumour symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions. Laura initially believed the weakness in her foot and leg might be related to pregnancy. Persistent or worsening neurological symptoms require medical assessment.
• A brain tumour diagnosis during pregnancy creates additional challenges. Laura’s specialist teams had to consider both her health and her baby’s wellbeing when planning treatment.
• Families are affected too. Danny and Sienna were central to Laura’s experience, showing how a brain tumour diagnosis can change family life.
• Treatment can bring complications and setbacks. Laura experienced side effects from chemotherapy and later faced tumour progression.
• Milestones can become especially meaningful. Sienna’s birth, Laura’s wedding and family birthdays were important moments during her illness.
• Emotional honesty matters. Laura has spoken openly about the fear, sadness and uncertainty that accompany her diagnosis.
• Sharing experiences can help raise awareness. Through interviews, fundraising and social media, Laura has contributed to conversations about brain tumour research and support.

Above all, Laura’s story is about a woman whose life changed dramatically while she was preparing to become a mother.

Her experience is deeply personal, but it also highlights the need for better awareness, medical research and support for families affected by brain cancer.

Understanding Glioblastoma (GBM)

Glioblastoma, often shortened to GBM, is a fast-growing, grade 4 malignant brain tumour.

It can grow into surrounding brain tissue, making complete surgical removal difficult.

Under the current World Health Organisation classification, glioblastoma is defined as an IDH-wildtype diffuse glioma.

Older diagnoses may use the term glioblastoma multiforme without specifying molecular characteristics.

Although treatments can help control tumour growth and manage symptoms, glioblastoma remains a serious, life-limiting condition.

What Are the Symptoms of Glioblastoma?

Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumour and the areas of the brain affected.

They may include:

• Persistent or worsening headaches.
• Seizures.
• Weakness or difficulty moving part of the body.
• Numbness or changes in sensation.
• Speech and language difficulties.
• Problems with memory or concentration.
• Changes in personality or behaviour.
• Vision or balance problems.
• Nausea and vomiting.

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms.

New, severe or worsening neurological symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Sudden weakness, facial drooping or speech difficulties may indicate a stroke and require emergency medical attention.

How Is Glioblastoma Treated?

Treatment depends on the individual diagnosis and specialist medical assessment.

Options may include:

Surgery: Removing as much of the tumour as safely possible, or performing a biopsy when extensive surgery isn’t appropriate.

Radiotherapy: Using targeted radiation to damage tumour cells and help control tumour growth.

Chemotherapy: Temozolomide is commonly used alongside radiotherapy and may continue afterwards, depending on the treatment plan.

Medication: Steroids, anti-seizure medicines and other treatments may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and psychological support can help people manage the effects of the tumour and treatment.

Supportive and palliative care: Providing symptom management, emotional support and practical guidance for patients and families.

Further treatment may be considered if the tumour returns, depending on the individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glioblastoma

Can Glioblastoma Be Diagnosed During Pregnancy?

Yes. Although uncommon, a brain tumour can be diagnosed during pregnancy.

Symptoms may overlap with other pregnancy-related conditions, making assessment particularly important when new neurological difficulties occur.

Treatment requires careful planning between specialist teams, including neuro-oncology, neurosurgery, obstetrics and neonatal care where appropriate.

Can Glioblastoma Cause Weakness in One Leg?

Yes. A glioblastoma affecting areas of the brain involved in movement can cause weakness, numbness or difficulty controlling a limb.

However, sudden or progressive weakness can have many causes and should always be medically assessed.

Can Someone Have Brain Surgery While Pregnant?

Brain surgery may be possible during pregnancy when medically necessary.

The timing and type of surgery depend on the mother’s health, the tumour’s location, the stage of pregnancy and the risks involved.

Specialist teams carefully consider the safest approach for both mother and baby.

Can Glioblastoma Return After Treatment?

Yes. Glioblastoma frequently recurs, even after surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Regular MRI scans help doctors monitor changes and consider further treatment options.

Can Someone Live Longer Than Their Initial Glioblastoma Prognosis?

Yes. Some people live longer than the average survival estimates discussed at diagnosis.

However, glioblastoma remains an aggressive cancer, and outcomes vary considerably.

Survival statistics describe groups of patients and cannot precisely predict an individual’s future.

Read More Glioblastoma Stories

Read more personal Glioblastoma stories on Aunty M Brain Tumours

If You Have Recently Been Diagnosed With Glioblastoma

If you have landed on this page after a glioblastoma diagnosis, whether it is your own or someone you love, please know you are not alone.

Every glioblastoma story is different.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive, grade 4 brain tumour. Although it is a serious diagnosis, the way it affects each person, their treatment options and their experiences can be different.

Some people have surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Others may have fewer treatment options because of the tumour’s location, their general health or other medical factors.

Some people experience long-term effects from the tumour or its treatment, while others face challenges with mobility, speech, memory, fatigue or seizures.

Families and carers may also face considerable emotional and practical difficulties.

Try not to compare your journey too closely with anyone else’s.

Reading other people’s experiences can offer comfort, understanding and a sense of connection. However, another person’s treatment experience or survival does not determine what will happen to you.

A glioblastoma diagnosis can bring difficult questions about treatment, the future and how life may change.

It is understandable to feel frightened, overwhelmed or uncertain.

Take things at your own pace, ask questions and remember that you do not have to face this journey alone.

Where to Go After a Glioblastoma Diagnosis?

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with glioblastoma, there are organisations offering information, emotional support, practical advice and opportunities to connect with others.

The Brain Tumour Charity

A UK charity providing information about glioblastoma, possible treatments, symptoms and living with a brain tumour.

It also offers emotional support, support groups and resources for patients, families and carers.

Visit The Brain Tumour Charity

brainstrust – Glioblastoma Support

Offers practical and emotional support to people living with glioblastoma, including those facing a new diagnosis or tumour recurrence.

Its services include individual support, coaching, patient guides and opportunities to connect with others who understand life with a brain tumour.

Visit brainstrust

Brain Tumour Support

A UK charity providing support for anyone affected by a brain tumour, including patients, families, carers and loved ones.

It offers individual and group support, opportunities to connect with others and specialist emotional support.

Visit Brain Tumour Support

Macmillan Cancer Support

Provides information, emotional support and practical guidance for people affected by cancer, including glioblastoma.

Its services include help with understanding treatment, managing side effects, financial concerns, benefits and employment.

Visit Macmillan Cancer Support

Cancer Research UK

Provides reliable information about glioblastoma, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and ongoing research.

Read its information about Glioblastoma

Brain Tumour Research

Funds research into brain tumours, including glioblastoma, and campaigns for greater awareness and investment in research.

Its work aims to improve understanding, develop better treatments and ultimately find cures for all types of brain tumours.

Visit Brain Tumour Research

NHS Neuro-Oncology, Rehabilitation and Palliative Care Services

Your specialist medical team can help you understand your glioblastoma diagnosis, treatment options and ongoing care.

Depending on your needs, additional support may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychological support or help managing seizures, headaches and fatigue.

Palliative care and hospice services can also provide valuable support for people living with glioblastoma and their families.

Palliative care is not only for end-of-life care. It can help manage symptoms, provide emotional support and improve quality of life at different stages of illness, including alongside active treatment.

Ask your GP, clinical nurse specialist or neuro-oncology team about appropriate referrals and local support services.

Would You Like to Share Your Glioblastoma Story?

At Aunty M Brain Tumours, we believe every person’s experience deserves to be heard.

Whether you have recently been diagnosed, are undergoing treatment, living with glioblastoma, supporting someone you love or remembering someone you have lost, your experience could help another person feel less alone.

Find out how to share your brain tumour story

Medical disclaimer: This article shares an individual’s personal experience alongside general educational information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Brain tumour experiences, treatment options and outcomes vary between individuals.