A Mother’s Unpredictable Cancer Journey from a Chicago Flight to Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis

Aida Burkins, a 22-year-old mother from Hemet, California, faced an unforeseen challenge following a routine trip to Chicago. Initially focused on raising her two young children, ages 1 and 3, her life took an unexpected turn in February 2025 when she received a surprising medical diagnosis.

Ear Troubles After a Flight

Burkins recounted to Newsweek that the ordeal began in May 2025 when her ear failed to pop after her flight to Chicago. By the time she returned home, the issue had escalated. She started experiencing bleeding into her throat, worsening hearing, increased fatigue, and unexpected weight loss.

“I started bleeding into my throat, which would only come out of my nose if I was bent at the hip at about 90 degrees,” she explained.

Initially dismissed as altitude sickness, her symptoms persisted, prompting further medical consultation. A doctor identified a mass obstructing her Eustachian tube, leading to a referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

Medical Investigations and Diagnosis

Months passed, and Burkins’ symptoms deteriorated. The specialist discovered a mass and inflamed adenoids requiring removal. A biopsy followed by a CT scan revealed extensive growths, and another biopsy confirmed nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in February 2026.

NPC, a rare type of head and neck cancer, originated in the nasopharynx. Typical symptoms include nasal congestion, nosebleeds, hearing loss, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease is strongly linked to Epstein-Barr virus and is uncommon in the United States, with less than one case per 100,000 people annually according to the American Cancer Society.

Treatment and Hope

Following her diagnosis, Burkins underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Her treatment is nearing completion with hopeful signs. “My prognosis is overall good,” she shared. “Everything is shrinking and responding to the treatments my doctors have been giving me.”

She hopes to raise awareness about similar symptoms, emphasizing that cancer can affect anyone regardless of age. Her children remain her primary motivation throughout this journey.

“My babies have definitely been my rock through all of this and have been my biggest purpose and reason for fighting and moving forward with my life,” Burkins expressed.