Navy Veteran Finds Healing Through Sports After Cancer

A near-death experience in the ICU taught Maria Yuvienco that healing requires more than just medical treatment. The Navy veteran and breast cancer survivor found her path forward through adaptive sports and a nonprofit dedicated to helping wounded warriors thrive.

Yuvienco joined the Navy in 2013 as an airman, later becoming an aviation ordnanceman before injury led her to retrain as a personnel specialist. While stationed at Pearl Harbor's Regional Support Center in 2022, she received devastating news: breast cancer.

Surgery in May 2022 sent her into remission without needing chemotherapy or radiation. But two months later, sepsis nearly claimed her life.

"That time in the ICU changed everything for me," Yuvienco said. "It made me realize how much stress can impact your health."

The Navy Wounded Warrior Program introduced her to adaptive sports, where an archery coach connected her with Semper Fi & America's Fund. Founded by military spouses in 2003, the nonprofit has supported over 38,000 service members and veterans through financial assistance, career support, and wellness programs.

After retiring from the Naval Hospital in Bremerton last June, Yuvienco faced new battles with depression and anxiety. The first six months brought denial and flashbacks as she adjusted to civilian life in Port Orchard.

The nonprofit became her lifeline. "What I miss most about the Navy is the camaraderie, and that's exactly what Semper Fi & America's Fund has given me," she said.

Why This Inspires

Yuvienco's transformation shows how community support can fill the void left by military service. She now builds her real estate business while staying connected to other veterans facing similar struggles.

Her advice to others navigating recovery reflects hard-won wisdom. "Take it one day at a time, focusing on what you can control, giving yourself grace on the harder days, and remembering that every small step forward still counts."

From ICU patient to adaptive athlete to entrepreneur, Yuvienco proves that setbacks can become launching points when you have the right support system.