A Nebraska woman born without most of her brain has defied all odds to celebrate her 20th birthday.
Alex Simpson, diagnosed as an infant with hydranencephaly a rare condition that left her with only a small portion of brain tissue was not expected to live past age four.
Her parents, who were initially told she was healthy at birth, discovered the condition two months later.
Despite the grim prognosis, Alex’s father, Shawn Simpson, said faith kept their family going.
Although Alex lacks the brain regions responsible for sight and hearing, her family believes she can sense emotions and the energy of those around her.
Her 14-year-old brother, SJ, said Alex can “feel” when someone near her is stressed or in pain, calling it “crazy” how connected she seems.
Now 20, Alex continues to inspire her family every day a living testament, they say, to faith, resilience, and the power of miracles.