Andrea Radis: A Journey of Strength, Hope and Thriving Through LMS

 At 74, Andrea Radis radiates resilience, warmth, and an unyielding zest for life.

A lifelong resident of the Los Angeles area and LMS survivor, Andrea has spent over four decades as a paralegal specializing in estates, trusts, and probate law.

Beyond her professional achievements, Andrea is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who finds joy in traveling, theater, and playing Canasta and Mahjong with her close-knit group of friends. She loves dogs, especially her three, and often takes care of her kids’ 3 dogs when they travel—though mealtime can get overwhelming with so many furry companions!

 However, in November 2017, her life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

The Discovery

Andrea’s journey began with a small lump on her shin—a lump that had been present for years. She brought it to the attention of multiple doctors, including dermatologists and her primary care physician, who reassured her that it was a benign lipoma.

However, when she noticed it growing and multiplying, she pushed for further testing. A scan confirmed the shocking diagnosis—LMS, a term unfamiliar even to her seasoned physician. Determined to seek the best care, Andrea connected with a sarcoma center at UCLA, where she was treated by a multidisciplinary team of experts.

The Road to Treatment

Andrea’s treatment began with an innovative approach—participating in a study to test the efficacy of five high-dose radiation treatments over the traditional five-week protocol. The goal was to shrink the tumor before surgery, and while the study ultimately proved successful for many, Andrea experienced severe complications. Following her surgery, her wound failed to heal properly, leading to a grueling journey of wound care, hyperbaric treatments, and additional procedures.

For two and a half years, Andrea remained cancer-free, undergoing regular scans to monitor her health. However, in late 2020, a scan revealed tumors in her lungs.

Determined to fight, she underwent an extensive series of lung ablations—ten procedures spanning over two years—where interventional radiologists meticulously targeted and destroyed the tumors while she remained awake, holding her breath

during each zapping session. Despite the intensity of the treatment, Andrea faced it with unwavering courage.

Facing New Challenges

Andrea’s battle did not stop there. In 2022 and 2023, new tumors appeared on her arm and back, leading to additional surgeries. She then began treatment with Votrient, an oral targeted therapy aimed at slowing the progression of the disease. While the drug showed promise, it also reopened her original leg wound, forcing her back into the arduous cycle of wound care. One particularly harrowing incident involved a procedure that nicked an artery, causing her to faint from blood loss. Thanks to her Apple Watch’s emergency alert system, paramedics arrived in time to stabilize her. Unfortunately, the same procedure also damaged a nerve, resulting in foot drop, which has since required her to wear a brace.

Despite these setbacks, Andrea remains steadfast in her resolve. Her current challenge is deciding whether to proceed with chemotherapy—a decision weighing heavily on her mind as she balances quality of life with the desire to keep the disease at bay.

A Life Well-Lived

Through it all, Andrea has refused to let LMS define her. She continues to find joy in the things she loves—spending time with her six grandchildren, attending Broadway-style theater productions, and traveling the world. Her adventures have taken her to Vietnam, Cuba, and Africa—twice. Even though her husband, Dave, prefers to stay closer to home, she embraces every opportunity to explore with friends.

Her sense of humor, resilience, and refusal to let cancer steal her happiness serve as an inspiration to all who know her. When asked about her perspective on life, Andrea shares, “I’ve learned to appreciate every day. At night, I reflect and say, ‘Today was a good day.’”

In 2023, Andrea had an unforgettable experience on The Price is Right. She was selected to participate, played a game but didn’t win, and when she spun the wheel, she hilariously fell on her butt—an embarrassing but memorable moment. 

Her love for travel has taken her to incredible destinations, including Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. She took about 700 photos on her trip, and her favorite is of a giraffe. In addition to her passion for travel, Andrea is deeply interested in music and art. She takes senior courses at a local college, enjoying a range of fascinating classes. A dedicated concertgoer, she recently attended performances by James Taylor and the Rolling Stones in Los Angeles, saw Adele in Las Vegas, and has been to many concerts over the years.

Advice for Others

For those newly diagnosed with LMS, Andrea emphasizes the importance of seeking care from a sarcoma specialist and obtaining multiple opinions. She also encourages patients to stay informed, connect with support groups, and advocate for themselves.

One possible regret she has is participating in the clinical trial for high-dose radiation. While she initially believed it would help shrink the tumor before surgery, she later faced significant complications, including a wound that refused to heal and required extensive additional treatments. In hindsight, she wonders whether the traditional radiation approach might have prevented these issues. She advises others to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of clinical trials before making a decision.

 Above all, she believes in living life fully, embracing joy wherever it can be found.

A Message of Hope

Andrea’s journey is one of perseverance, strength, and hope. Her story reminds us that while LMS is a formidable opponent, it does not have to define one’s life. Through unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, Andrea continues to thrive, proving that even in the face of adversity, life is still meant to be lived to the fullest.