Oct. 28 — Cancer is often a topic too difficult to address. This life-changing event commonly evokes feelings of fear, sadness and anxiety. For award-winning actress and director Kathy Bates, being diagnosed with cancer not once but twice was devastating. She is now cancer-free and wants to share her story in hopes of creating greater awareness, earlier diagnosis and treatment.

The Providence Little Company of Mary’s 12th Women’s Wellness Conference The Power of Pink presented by Honda earlier this month promoted the health and well-being of a woman’s body, mind and spirit. As the keynote speaker, Bates gave her frank and funny talk, Blind-Sided: When Cancer Comes Calling, which brought them to tears and at the same time laughter as she shared her experiences since being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2003, breast cancer in 2012 and lymphedema.

“Life just turns on a dime,” she reminded the 600 conference attendees — as she encouraged them to get cancer screenings and get passionate about their health. Proceeds from the women’s wellness event benefited Providence Little Company of Mary Women and Children’s Health Services.

In addition to being the presenting sponsor of this event, American Honda donated a 2015 Acura RDX for a year-long fundraiser to help the medical center raise additional funds for their health programs.