Lori Abramson’s Journey with Sarcoma

In April 2015, Lori Abramson was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Her doctors discovered a tumor in her lower left leg, and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. 

After careful evaluation and prayer, Lori and her medical team made the difficult decision to proceed with an above-the-knee amputation. At the time, Lori was living in Montana and had to make another tough decision: where to have the surgery. Because Montana lacked the advanced medical resources she needed, Lori chose Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in Portland, not only for its medical expertise but also because she had family nearby who could offer support.  

The journey to Portland was long and financially challenging, but with help from the Northwest Sarcoma Foundation, Lori was able to manage travel and food expenses. When asked what she wanted to do with the amputated limb, Lori chose to donate it for research—hoping it could contribute to future advancements in treating Sarcoma. 

Four years after her initial diagnosis, the cancer returned and spread to her chest. It was found in her lower left lung, marking its progression to metastatic disease. It was removed with a VATS procedure. In 2022, Lori had a reoccurrence and underwent an open thoracotomy, a major surgery to remove the cancer from her lung yet again. This time Lori went back to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to see if she qualified for any clinical trials. After a PET scan proved she did not have any evidence of disease in the rest of her body, she was tested to see if she qualified; and did not. Under the guidance of her specialist at OHSU and her radiologist in Montana, she received SBRT to treat the Sarcoma. Upon finishing SBRT in August of 2023, there have been no signs of the cancer returning.   

Throughout her journey, Lori leaned heavily on her faith. She firmly believes that God played a central role in her battle with Sarcoma. There were many moments she describes as divine interventions—from relief during times of discomfort to the sudden availability of crucial diagnostic appointments. One memorable example came when Lori needed a PET scan. With limited access in rural Montana, doctors warned it could take months. But to everyone’s surprise, the scheduler found an open slot the very next morning. For Lori, these moments were signs of God’s grace, guiding and sustaining her throughout her fight.