ARLINGTON, Va. —
In the Army, you train to overcome challenges and adversity to complete your mission. But no amount of training can prepare you for certain personal hardships. That was the case for Army Maj. Yazmin Feliciano, whose 20-year career is rooted in triumph over fear.
“My father served in Vietnam and he didn't like to talk about it,” she said. “So I was fearful at first, but I knew I wanted to serve my country and I was looking for a new adventure.”
Throughout her decorated career, the Puerto Rico native faced and overcame many obstacles, but none would prepare her for the heartbreak she endured in 2012 when her younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 27.
“I saw everything that she went through with her treatment, and my sister smiled through all of it. She was just humble, sweet and kind to everyone through everything,” she said.
Vigilance
It was that experience that made Feliciano more aware of her own health. In February of last year, her vigilance led to a discovery that would change her life forever; a lump in her own breast.
“I know what fibroids feel like, but this was different. I knew it wasn't normal,” she said.
When the results of her mammogram came back positive for breast cancer, Feliciano's life began moving at lightning speed.
“I met my whole team — the surgeon, the nutritionist, a social worker, oncologists,” she…
