Inspirational Sydney mother Alex Piper dies after lengthy cancer fight

Sydney mother-of-three Alex Piper, 41, has died surrounded by her family following a four year battle with cancer.

Mrs Piper, her husband Matt, 44, and children Charley, 13, Honey, 10, and Willow, 5, were brought to the attention of the nation when they were featured on A Current Affair in November, with more than $1 million donated by the Australian public in the following month after their story aired.

Two years into their marriage, Mr Piper lost sight in both eyes and was declared 100 percent legally blind. He then suffered nerve damage in his hands, rendering him unable to continue his work as a masseuse.

In 2010, Mrs Piper was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy. A year later the cancer had spread to her bones, and later to her stomach.

With the couple unable to work, relatives decided to set up a Facebook and MyCause fundraising page asking the public for assistance with paying the mortgage and ensuring financial stability for the three young children.

The initial target of $250,000 was quickly surpassed four times over, allowing the family from the northern beaches to focus on Mrs Piper's recovery from Stage 4 stomach cancer.

"We're just one small story, everyone has a story, we're just one of them, and we are just so appreciative of everything, the generosity and the money that is there to further Alex's future in life and hope it's going to be worthwhile," Mr Piper said in December.

Overnight a message was posted to the All in for Alex Facebook page announcing Alex had passed away peacefully while surrounded by family.

"Despite being taken from us way too early, she has inspired so many people," the statement said.

"Alex read every message on the 'All in for Alex' site & the level of support really touched her."

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