Nebraska Woman Born Without a Brain Defies Medical Odds, Celebrates 20th Birthday as Family Calls Her a ‘Miracle Fighter’

OMAHA, Neb. — A Nebraska woman who was born without a brain and wasn’t expected to live past age 4 has just celebrated her 20th birthday — an extraordinary milestone her family says is proof of faith, love, and resilience.

Alex Simpson, of Omaha, was diagnosed at birth with hydranencephaly, a rare and severe neurological condition where much of the brain is missing and replaced with fluid. Despite the devastating prognosis, Alex continues to survive and inspire her family two decades later.

‘Her Brain Is the Size of My Pinky Finger’

Alex’s father, Shawn Simpson, shared with KETV News the details of his daughter’s rare condition.
“[Hydranencephaly] means that her brain is not there,” he said. “Technically, she has about half the size of my pinky finger of her cerebellum in the back part of her brain, but that’s all that’s there.”

Doctors initially told the family that Alex likely wouldn’t live beyond her early childhood. Yet, as her 20th birthday arrived, her parents credited faith, love, and determination for her continued strength.

“When people ask why she’s lived this long, the only thing I can say is love,” Shawn said.

A Family Fueled by Faith

Alex’s parents, Shawn and Lorena Simpson, said that their faith gave them courage when doctors offered little hope.

“Twenty years ago, we were scared,” Shawn shared. “But faith, I think, is really what kept us alive.”

Though Alex cannot see or hear, her parents say she senses their presence through touch and emotional energy. “You can see that when I went up there and talked to her, she was looking for me,” Shawn said, recalling how Alex’s eyes move as if recognizing familiar voices and gestures.

“She’s a fighter,” Lorena added softly.

Her Brother’s Unshakable Bond

Alex’s younger brother, SJ, now 14, described his sister as a source of pride and strength.

“When people ask about my family, the first thing I start with is Alex, my disabled sister,” he said.

Like his parents, SJ believes Alex can sense emotions around her — even in complete silence. “Say somebody’s stressed around her — it could be totally quiet — but Alex will know. She’ll feel something,” he explained.

Defying Every Medical Expectation

According to the Cleveland Clinic, hydranencephaly occurs in roughly one in every 5,000 to 10,000 pregnancies and is often fatal within the first year of life. That makes Alex’s survival into adulthood an exceptionally rare case.

Doctors say most children born with the condition lack brain structures necessary for basic functions, yet Alex’s family believes she continues to live through a combination of love, faith, and her will to survive.

‘Every Day With Her Is a Gift’

The Simpsons say they no longer count the years ahead — instead, they cherish each day they have together.

“Every day we have with her is a gift,” Lorena said. “She may not talk or walk, but she has her own way of letting us know she’s here with us.”

Their story has touched hearts across the country, with many calling Alex’s life a living testament to perseverance and unconditional love.

“She’s a miracle,” Shawn said. “And she reminds us every day what strength really looks like.”

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