A devoted mother of two from Preston has passed away at age 36 following a five-year fight against a rare pregnancy-related cancer, her family confirms.

Diagnosis and Treatment Journey

Victoria Howarth received her diagnosis in January 2022 for an aggressive form of cancer linked to pregnancy that targeted her uterus. The disease later spread to her lungs, and two rounds of chemotherapy failed to halt its progress. Doctors then shifted her to immunotherapy, which led to remission after 10 months of treatment.

The cancer returned in 2024, prompting a complete hysterectomy. However, it had already metastasized to her liver, right lung, and ureter.

Fundraising Efforts and Final Days

As a last hope, family and friends launched a crowdfunding campaign last year to fund further immunotherapy, raising nearly £60,000. Despite these efforts, Victoria died last week.

Trinity Hospice in Bispham provided compassionate end-of-life care during her final two weeks, supporting both Victoria and her loved ones with dignity and empathy.

Heartfelt Family Tribute

In a poignant update shared on April 20, her family reflected on her courage: “This morning at 09.40am, surrounded by her loved ones, our beautiful Victoria closed her eyes one last time and finally rested.”

They highlighted her fierce battle: “During the past 5 years Victoria has fought bravely and fiercely for every extra second that she got to spend with her beloved daughters Sienna Mae and Isla and the love of her life, her husband Paul. Her devotion to her family was a true testament to who she was as a wife and mother.”

Victoria’s warmth extended beyond her immediate family: “Victoria was an incredible daughter, sister, auntie and friend. She naturally and effortlessly poured love into everyone and everything that she cared about.”

Her family noted her lasting qualities: “Her empathy, kindness, sharp wit and most of all her humour will leave a void that everyone who knew her will understand and miss.”

Expressing deep gratitude, they added: “Without your help and her bravery we most likely may not have made it to here and are grateful for every extra minute.” Remaining funds will support her husband and daughters, with future efforts benefiting Trinity Hospice.