Andrea Andrade, a celebrated beauty queen from California, passed away on January 16, 2024, at the age of 35. Her death comes nearly nine years after she was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer, a condition for which doctors initially provided a grim prognosis of six months to two years.
Andrade’s husband, Chris Wilson, expressed his deep love and sorrow in a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. He wrote, “My eternal love. I know this isn’t goodbye. I’ll see you on the other side baby. Keep your heavenly arms around me, I love you mi amor.” This poignant message reflects the strength of their bond, which lasted for eight years, two of which they spent as a married couple.
A Journey of Courage and Inspiration
Following her diagnosis in 2017, Andrade defied expectations by winning five beauty pageants, including titles such as Miss West Coast and Miss Nuestra Belleza USA. She also competed for the Miss California crown, all while undergoing intensive chemotherapy treatment. Andrade became known for her determination; she participated in pageants with a chemotherapy port in her chest. “I felt like I just need to do this now,” she told Inside Edition in 2017. “It’s been one of my lifelong dreams,” she shared.
In addition to her pageant successes, Andrade dedicated herself to philanthropy. Together with Wilson, she co-founded a program called Not All Heroes Wear Capes, aimed at supporting children undergoing chemotherapy. The couple visited hospitals, bringing gifts and hope to young cancer patients. “She felt her mission from God was to share her story and help other people,” Wilson told the Fresno Bee. “To let it be known that even if you’re diagnosed with something, you can still have an amazing life and pursue your dreams. Like Andrea did.”
Andrade’s charity work was both fulfilling and emotionally challenging. In an Instagram post from April 2025, she reflected on the joy and pain of her experiences, writing, “I love seeing the smiles but I know the pain these children and their families are going through, and it always hurts my heart.”
Legacy and Remembrance
Andrade’s last Instagram post was a celebration of her 35th birthday, where she expressed optimism, stating, “Chapter 35: just getting started, all glory to God.” Since her passing, tributes have flooded social media, with many remembering her as a beacon of positivity and resilience. One user remarked, “May you rest in peace Andrea. You fought long and hard, you were brave and always so positive. Full of life.”
Another tribute highlighted her enduring spirit, stating, “Andrea. RIP beautiful girl. I’m sure you are joking and making everyone laugh in Heaven.” These messages serve as a testament to Andrade’s impact on those who knew her and even those who followed her journey from afar.
Andrea Andrade leaves behind a legacy of courage, love, and inspiration, reminding us all of the importance of pursuing our dreams despite life’s challenges. Her voice and story will continue to inspire many in the fight against cancer and beyond.
