Florida Woman Diagnosed with Three Cancers After Husband's Infidelity

Eileen McGill Fox's story highlights the dangers of HPV and the importance of prevention through vaccination and regular screenings.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:43pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image showing the skeletal structure of the female reproductive system, with the organs affected by HPV-related cancers glowing faintly, conveying the personal and clinical nature of this health issue.An intimate X-ray view of the female anatomy reveals the hidden, internal toll of HPV-related cancers, a sobering reminder of the importance of prevention and early detection.Today in Tampa

A Florida woman named Eileen McGill Fox was diagnosed with vulvar, cervical, and anal cancer after discovering her husband of 30 years had cheated on her. Fox's harrowing experience underscores the often-overlooked risks of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and the critical need for sexual health awareness, preventative measures like vaccination, and open conversations to reduce stigma around these issues.

Why it matters

Fox's case illustrates how HPV, a common viral STI, can lead to several types of preventable cancers. Her story emphasizes the importance of regular screenings, early detection, and the HPV vaccine, which can help stop the spread of HPV and reduce cancer risk.

The details

After learning of her husband's infidelity, Fox proactively sought testing for sexually transmitted infections. While initial tests were negative, a subsequent Pap smear revealed a positive result for a high-risk strain of HPV. This led to a cascade of diagnoses over the following years, including vulvar cancer in 2019, cervical cancer, and then anal cancer in 2023. Doctors have indicated these cancers were likely preventable with the HPV vaccine.

  • In February 2019, Fox received a diagnosis of vulvar cancer.
  • Later in 2019, Fox was also diagnosed with cervical cancer.
  • In 2023, Fox was diagnosed with anal cancer.

The players

Eileen McGill Fox

A Florida woman who was diagnosed with vulvar, cervical, and anal cancer after discovering her husband's infidelity.

Tampa Bay Times

The news publication that detailed Fox's story.

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What they’re saying

“If it can happen to a married woman of 30 years, then it can happen to anybody. I'm a mother of four, living a life of work and community service, and then I find myself on the receiving end of this vicious, vicious virus.”

— Eileen McGill Fox

What’s next

Fox is now advocating for open conversations about sexual health and HPV to reduce the stigma surrounding these issues. She emphasizes the need to employ clear and direct language when discussing preventative care.

The takeaway

Fox's story highlights the critical importance of HPV vaccination, regular screenings, and open discussions about sexual health to prevent HPV-related cancers. Her experience underscores how this common virus can have devastating consequences, even for those living seemingly healthy, low-risk lifestyles.