Mom of 2 Diagnosed with Terminal Cervical Cancer After Giving Birth

Alex Stewart, 28, was given 6 months to 2 years to live after her cancer spread despite treatment

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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When 28-year-old Alex Stewart was giving birth to her second child in 2025, midwives discovered a lump that was later diagnosed as cervical cancer. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment, the cancer spread and Alex was eventually given a terminal diagnosis, with 6 months to 2 years to live. Alex is now focused on making as many memories as possible with her 8-month-old son Teddy and 3-year-old daughter Elsie before her passing.

Why it matters

Alex's story highlights the importance of regular cervical cancer screenings, even for young and seemingly healthy women. Her case also underscores the challenges of navigating a terminal diagnosis while caring for young children, and the need for greater support systems for families facing such difficult circumstances.

The details

During Alex's labor with her son Teddy, midwives discovered a lump that they initially thought was a varicose vein. At her 8-week postpartum checkup, the lump was still present, leading to further testing that revealed Alex had cervical cancer. Despite treatment, the cancer spread, and Alex was eventually given a terminal diagnosis with 6 months to 2 years to live. Alex is now on her second round of chemotherapy while trying to spend as much time as possible with her two young children.

  • In 2025, midwives discovered a lump during Alex's labor with her son Teddy.
  • At Alex's 8-week postpartum checkup, the lump was still present.
  • Alex was eventually diagnosed with cervical cancer and given a terminal diagnosis in 2026.

The players

Alex Stewart

A 28-year-old woman who was diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer after giving birth to her second child.

Joe Stewart

Alex's husband, with whom she shares two young children.

Teddy

Alex and Joe's 8-month-old son.

Elsie

Alex and Joe's 3-year-old daughter.

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What they’re saying

“I was really shocked and upset. My first thought was, 'How would the children cope without having a mom?' My mind was racing with all the things I would have to put in place to make this process as easy as possible for them.”

— Alex Stewart (PEOPLE)

“I felt I had so much I wanted to do in my life, and this was now being cut short.”

— Alex Stewart (PEOPLE)

What’s next

Alex is currently on her second round of chemotherapy as she continues to fight her terminal diagnosis. Her friends have set up a GoFundMe to support Alex and her family during this difficult time.

The takeaway

Alex's story underscores the importance of regular cervical cancer screenings, even for young and seemingly healthy women. Her case also highlights the immense challenges of navigating a terminal diagnosis while caring for young children, and the need for greater support systems for families facing such heartbreaking circumstances.