Mexican television host Yolanda Andrade recently shared a raw and emotional update on her health, describing herself as "trapped in another body." The 53-year-old personality explained that she suffered a cerebral aneurysm in 2024, which led to an incurable degenerative disease.
Her condition has caused significant physical challenges, including psychomotor problems and speech difficulties. Andrade made her return to television this week on the program Montse & Joe, appearing alongside her longtime friend Montserrat Oliver.
"You don’t recognize yourself because my voice, how I speak, I feel like I hadn’t heard it before," Andrade confessed, tearfully. "When I hear myself, I say: ‘That’s not me.’ When I see old videos, it fills me with emotion, and it seems like another person, but it’s me, trapped in another body, like the case got tired."
Guests Lucía Méndez and Juan José Origel were present during her poignant testimony. Andrade’s health struggles have been a concern for months.
A person close to Andrade disclosed to TVNotas in December 2024 that she needed delicate surgery. Doctors had reportedly offered discouraging prognoses at that time.
The source indicated Andrade traveled to the United States to consult with a prestigious neurosurgeon. The situation was described as extremely sensitive.
Andrade, who was honored as Best Female Revelation at the TVyNovelas Awards in 1993, noted her disease has transformed her speech and movement. She feels increasingly distant from her former self.
Despite the sadness and fear, she maintains her faith and appreciates the support from those around her. "I have faith, I thank the people who pray for me, and it’s something magical," she stated.
"This is a disease that I have already discussed with other people who have it, and that makes me feel understood."
Andrade admitted to experiencing moments of deep depression. However, she emphasized that her mind remains sharp, even as her body struggles.
"I try hard, but believe me, a sick person obviously tries hard, but the body doesn’t respond," she elaborated.
"My mind is alert, and that’s what scares you most, because you say: ‘That’s not me, or what’s happening.’ Family members, be patient, because sometimes one gets fed up and becomes rude."
Months ago, Andrade revealed that doctors had warned her the disease could limit her life expectancy to between three and five years. She has faced this diagnosis with both resignation and courage.