Lupus patient says joining world-first trial was ‘best decision I ever made’
Laura – one of the first in the world to receive CAR-T cell therapy. Photo credit: Media Studios
05 August 2026
One of the first people in the world to receive a ground-breaking treatment for lupus at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, supported by NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, has welcomed news of a larger trial offering the one-off CAR-T cell therapy to more patients.
Laura, pictured above, age 37, was first diagnosed with lupus aged 14 and says she is thrilled to finally have her condition under control after struggling with constant and increasingly severe symptoms for almost two decades.
“This is the first time since I was a teenager that I’ve really felt healthy. I’ve tried so many treatments over the years but nothing else has given me back so much freedom and control for so long. It’s really exciting to be able to benefit from something so life-changing.”
Laura’s symptoms started in 2003 when doctors initially thought she had glandular fever. Her illness continued and after extensive tests she was diagnosed with lupus at her local hospital.
“I was in denial for a long time, it just didn’t feel right to be diagnosed with something so severe, extensive and long-lasting when I was so young. It was only when I was 17 and things started to get worse that I had to accept I was going to be living with this for the rest of my life.”
For many people with lupus the severity of symptoms changes over time, switching between phases where they have few symptoms and phases of more severe and debilitating illness. In Laura’s case, she has had constant severe symptoms for the last 20 years.
Laura, from King’s Lynn, said “It’s a constant part of every day. Waking up with every joint aching. A daily routine of creams to protect my skin. Wearing gloves all the time because my hands are so damaged. I can’t even wear my hair the way I want. It’s a huge amount to get used to, especially when you’re a teenager.”
In 2012, as her condition continued to progress, Laura was referred to Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH), which has helped her to access a wider range of treatments and research studies.
She runs a successful, high-end decorating business with her partner Matt. She has built up the business despite constant challenges from her illness.
“I travel all over the East of England to meet clients, usually in their homes. At one point I was so stiff and in so much pain, I couldn’t drive, I couldn’t even walk. Anytime I get ill, it means time in hospital. I’ve been in hospital multiple times each year and each time it’s usually at least a month before I get out again. I’m lucky that my team at Addenbrooke’s are fantastic and always there when I need them.”
Since her diagnosis, Laura has tried a wide range of treatments including at least seven different chemotherapies and immunotherapies. She even participated in other clinical trials of new treatments.
Doctors note that Laura’s case is particularly severe and complex. She has commonly had extreme complications as a result of treatment, which has made it harder for doctors to help her manage her symptoms.
