Lifestyle influencer Jennifer Burnham has shared new details about the cause of death of her 4-year-old son, Baxter, revealing he was diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor.
Burnham spoke about her son’s illness in an Instagram video on Oct. 15, explaining how a medical concern that initially appeared manageable ultimately led to a devastating diagnosis.
Before being diagnosed, the content creator told followers that Baxter had appeared to be a healthy and happy child; then the family noticed that his left eye was beginning to turn inward.
Doctors initially planned surgery to address the eye alignment issue, but a routine MRI scan before the procedure revealed a brain tumor.
“Any specialist—anyone that could put eyes on our son’s case—we talked to and tried to figure out what our options were to get rid of this,” Burnham said in the video.
Further examination identified the tumor as diffuse midline glioma, an aggressive cancer that can develop in central structures of the brain, including the brainstem.
Tumors in this location can be difficult to treat due to the position and the sensitive functions being controlled by surrounding tissue.
Baxter underwent surgery to remove part of the tumor and received radiation treatment.
Burnham and her husband, Bryce, also explored additional treatment options in hopes of improving their son’s condition.
“It’s so difficult to watch your child going through something like this, and you’re literally helpless,” she continued. “I mean, it’s every parent’s worst nightmare. And we’ve been living in this nightmare for six months.”
The family consulted specialists and traveled to Europe in pursuit of additional treatment options. Despite their efforts, the tumor’s location and aggressive nature presented significant obstacles.
“He was so strong and such a fighter and literally fought until the very last day,” she added. “I know that in my heart that he is in a much better place.”
Burnham hopes that by speaking publicly about Baxter’s diagnosis and her family’s experience, she may offer support to others facing similar circumstances.
“I know a lot of you have questions on what happened to our son, so I’m answering everything here,” she said. “Hoping I can help anyone going through a similar situation.”
Baxter died on Oct. 5, according to a family statement shared on Instagram on Oct. 12. Burnham and her husband are also parents to a younger son, Barron, who is 1 year old.
“Baxter, from the moment you were born, you have always been our dream come true. You have the most perfect angelic face and the sweetest personality,” read the tribute.
“You love your family, cars, chocolate chip cookies, karate, and all of your friends.”
“We miss you too much, but we know you are still with us every day, watching over mommy, daddy, and your baby brother Barron from heaven,” the post concluded.
“We love you always and forever.”
Burnham has built an online following by sharing glimpses of her family life, motherhood journey, daily routines, and cooking, attracting approximately 96,000 followers on Instagram.
