College Student, 22, Thought She Had a Sinus Infection but It Was Leukemia: ‘Am I Going to Survive This?’

College Student, 22, Discovers Sinus Infection was Leukemia

A 22-year-old college student, Breeze Hunter, shares her harrowing health journey after what she initially thought was a sinus infection turned out to be a diagnosis of leukemia. Hunter, a senior at Texas A&M University, began experiencing symptoms like persistent headaches and pressure in her nose at the start of the fall semester. Despite seeking medical help and being told it was a sinus infection, her health continued to decline, leaving her too weak to even attend her classes.

Realising that her condition was more serious than initially thought, Hunter went back to the doctors in October 2024. Following a blood test, she received the shocking news that she had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. The diagnosis was overwhelming for Hunter, who admitted feeling scared and uncertain about her chances of survival.

Subsequently, Hunter was transferred to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston for immediate treatment. She underwent a rigorous regimen of chemotherapy infusions, radiation, and a stem cell transplant – made possible by her brother Roy, who was a perfect match. Despite facing physical and emotional challenges throughout the treatment, Hunter responded remarkably well, according to Dr. Courtney DiNardo, a professor at the cancer center.

After completing her treatment successfully, Hunter was declared cancer-free in February. She continues to undergo maintenance chemotherapy and is looking forward to her college graduation. Throughout her battle with leukemia, Hunter has been sharing her journey on social media, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of listening to one’s body and prioritising health.

Hunter’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of health and the importance of seeking medical attention when symptoms persist. Her positive attitude and determination to fight against cancer have been sources of inspiration for many. As she looks towards the future with optimism, Hunter hopes that her experience will encourage others to be proactive about their health and not ignore any potential warning signs.

In a world where health concerns can sometimes be overlooked or dismissed, stories like Hunter’s highlight the critical role of early detection and timely intervention. By sharing her journey openly and honestly, she is not only raising awareness about leukemia but also spreading a message of hope and resilience. As Hunter continues her recovery and embraces a cancer-free life, her story stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The journey of Breeze Hunter from a college student battling leukemia to a cancer-free young woman is a testament to her resilience and courage. As she navigates life post-treatment, her story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, positivity, and seeking help when needed. With her inspiring journey, Hunter has become a beacon of hope for many facing their own health challenges, showing that with determination and support, even the toughest battles can be won.