ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- “You’ll have to fight.” These were the words Lt. Col. Jennifer Sayers heard from her radiologist that changed her life.
It was April 2023. Sayers, an Airman with nearly 18 years of service, found herself facing an unexpected and life-altering diagnosis — breast cancer. Diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form — triple-negative breast cancer — she was in a battle she never anticipated.
The journey began while on a ski trip with her husband when she discovered a lump. At just 37 years old and without a family history of breast cancer, Sayers wasn’t within the typical age range for regular mammograms. Trusting her intuition, she sought care, and within weeks, her life took a dramatic turn with the confirmation of her cancer diagnosis.
“It was shocking and terrifying. I went to the appointment alone, thinking it was nothing,” she recalled. But the moment her radiologist encouraged her to fight at that very appointment, the reality set in.
Sayers was immediately referred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, where she began an intense treatment regimen at the Murtha Cancer Center.
“I truly believe I received world-class care,” she said, praising the military’s healthcare system for its swift action and comprehensive approach. Her treatment plan included 16 rounds of chemotherapy, surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Sayers’ battle with cancer was both physical and emotional. The fear and uncertainty of those early days were overwhelming.
“I was terrified, but once I had a treatment plan in place, I started to feel more in control,” she explained.
The support of her medical team at Walter Reed made all the difference in her fight.
“The breast care center at Walter Reed was incredible,” Sayers said. “I had a dedicated nurse, oncologists, and surgeons who were with me every step of the way. My primary oncologist saved my life and is my hero.”
During this challenging time, Sayers received unwavering support from her chain of command. When she informed her leadership about her diagnosis, they responded with compassion and understanding, allowing her the space to focus solely on her health.
"My leadership gave me the gift of time," she reflects. "I was able to concentrate on getting better without the stress of work hanging over me."
Her husband, Air National Guard Maj. Shannon Beers received permission to work from home, enabling him to be by her side throughout her chemotherapy treatments.
"I believe Jenn could have faced this challenge on her own, as she has demonstrated incredible strength in so many ways during our first year of marriage,” Shannon said. “But the team effort to include coworkers and leadership should be highlighted. Their support enabled us to access consistent, dedicated, modern medical treatments, which played a crucial role in our positive outcomes thus far. Now, we can pay it forward as we continue to serve.”
There were various other resources Sayers used to stay resilient during treatment.
“Art has also helped me process everything I was going through,” she shared, as she channeled her emotions into painting, photography and writing during treatment. She also discovered an organization in Washington, D.C., which offered support groups and art-based healing classes.
She also found strength through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, which assigned her a liaison to provide ongoing support and guidance.
“The program was extremely helpful,” she said. Sayers is looking forward to taking full advantage of their adaptive sports and resiliency programs as she continues her healing.
A year after her diagnosis, Sayers is proud to call herself a cancer survivor, but she understands the journey is far from over.
“Cancer is an ongoing fight," she emphasized. "But I am grateful for the support I’ve received—from the Air Force, my family, and my medical team."
She continues to undergo follow-up treatments and takes medication to reduce her risk of recurrence and remains committed to her recovery. Through her resilience, the support of her command and the resources provided by the Air Force, she continues to serve her country with renewed purpose and hope.
With this, Sayers is determined to share her story to encourage others, particularly fellow Airmen, to prioritize their health.
“I want other women in the military to know the importance of breast health and to trust their instincts if something feels off,” she said. "Talk to your provider about your risks, and if you are ever faced with this unspeakable situation, take advantage of the resources available. The Air Force will take care of you, just like it took care of me."