April Bueno
Survivor
Anchored in Strength: My Journey From The Navy to Breast Cancer Survivor
I was diagnosed with breast cancer on my son’s first day of high school. A routine mammogram caught it early—Stage 1A. Within a week and a half, I had my first surgery, a lumpectomy with a sentinel node biopsy. Thankfully, the biopsy showed no signs of spread, but my margins weren’t clear, so I needed a second lumpectomy.
Further testing confirmed I did not have genetic markers for breast cancer, but I still encouraged my four sisters to get screened. After a month of healing, I began 16 rounds of radiation, finishing just after Thanksgiving. In January 2022, I started adjuvant treatment with tamoxifen. The side effects—nausea, dizziness, hot flashes, fatigue, and joint pain—were challenging, and I quickly learned that rest was essential. I had to say no to things I would have previously said yes to, prioritizing my health in a way I never had before.
Fast forward to today, my son is now in his senior year of high school, and I am still on adjuvant treatment. I have since retired from the military and am now focusing on myself and my family. Life as a survivor isn’t always easy—some days are good, some are tough—but I’m learning to embrace the journey.
Each August brings mixed emotions, as my “cancerversary” on August 23 is a reminder of everything I’ve been through. That first post-cancer mammogram was nerve-wracking, but thankfully, it came back clear. I know those feelings of anxiety will never completely go away, but I also know that I am stronger than I ever imagined.
In the beginning, I kept my diagnosis private at work. As a military executive officer overseeing more than 50 people, I wasn’t comfortable sharing what I was going through. But over time, I’ve learned to talk about it—and even use humor to cope. I now carry a “cancer card” in my wallet that says: “This card may be used to get out of anything. This card may be kept forever.” It’s a reminder that I’ve earned the right to take life at my own pace.
Breast cancer changed my life, but it also gave me perspective. I now know the importance of early detection, advocating for your health, and allowing yourself grace in recovery. I don’t know exactly what the future holds, but I know one thing—I am here and thriving.