Henry Winkler, Marlee Matlin headline Memorial Hermann 'In the Pink of Health' Luncheon

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Henry Winkler, one of the most recognized actors in the world for his role as “The Fonz” on "Happy Days", and Academy Award Winning actress Marlee Matlin will be guest speakers at the 13th Annual "In the Pink of Health" Luncheon presented by CB&I on Friday, Oct. 11.

“We are thrilled to have Henry and Marlee as our speakers this year and have no doubt they will absolutely amaze us talking about their journeys in life,” said Memorial Hermann "In the Pink of Health" co-chairs Carrie Hyman and Melissa Preston. “They have an inspirational and entertaining story to share about overcoming adversity, and the heights you can reach when you believe in yourself. It's safe to say that anyone who has been touched by cancer or who supports our cause also feels that anything is possible when you truly believe.”

When 12-year-old Matlin met Winkler, they instantly struck a special bond. Matlin was attending the Center on Deafness, a community theater where she began acting at age seven. Winkler and his wife visited the Center after he received fan mail from the students. There they saw Matlin perform and were blown away by her performance. Backstage, Winkler enthusiastically told Matlin to follow her dream of becoming a professional actress.

At age 21, Matlin became the youngest recipient of the Best Actress Oscar for her work in "Children of a Lesser God". She is one of only four actresses to receive the honor for their film debut. Oscar in tow, Matlin found her way to the Winklers’ front door and asked if she could stay for a week until she found a place to settle. Two years later, she was still living with the Winklers, who consider her their adopted daughter to this day.

At the luncheon, Winkler and Matlin will deliver an intimate dialogue revealing their profound connection and individual journeys. Through humorous anecdotes, inspirational life lessons and moving stories, they will explore themes of overcoming adversity – including breast cancer – and believing in oneself. The duo also will sign books at the luncheon and attend the Memorial Hermann "In the Pink of Health" VIP Party the night before the luncheon to mingle with guests.

Since its inception in 2001, "In the Pink of Health" has generated more than $2.5 million to support breast cancer patients and their families. 100 percent of the funds raised stay in Montgomery County and benefit the community in many ways:

- Provides free mammograms to underserved women. This year, Memorial Hermann "In the Pink of Health" offered its partner, The Interfaith Community Clinic, unlimited referrals to Memorial Hermann The Woodlands’ Breast & Bone Center for free screening mammograms to women who could not afford it.

- Purchased state-of-the-art diagnostic technology that detects breast cancer up to 3 years earlier than a standard mammogram.

- Funds extensive educational materials for newly diagnosed cancer patients, as well as workshops and a retreat for cancer survivors to provide education and support to help them navigate their cancer journey.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the luncheon. For more information, visit www.inthepinkofhealth.org or call 713.897.PINK (7465). To learn more about the Breast & Bone Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, call 713.897.4172.