In the Pink of Health Committee announces Samantha Harris as keynote speaker

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital’s In the Pink of Health Committee is excited to announce that Samantha Harris will serve as the keynote speaker at the 16th Annual Memorial Hermann In the Pink of Health Luncheon.

Harris is a seasoned entertainment journalist and two-time Emmy-nominated TV host, health and fitness expert, certified personal trainer, and breast cancer survivor.

“Samantha's journalistic experience and her touching account of her breast cancer journey made her the best choice for this year’s luncheon,” said event co-chairs Andrea Alexander and Karey Miller Bancroft. “Her infectious optimistic outlook will make a positive impact on our guests. She will be an awesome inspiration to our attendees!”

Harris is best known for her hosting role on Dancing With the Stars (eight seasons) and Entertainment Tonight. She can now be seen as a fill-in host for the nationally-syndicated shows Access Hollywood Live and The Better Show, where she also conducts celebrity interviews.

In 2014, she was diagnosed with Stage II invasive breast cancer. Just days after a clear mammogram, she found a lump in her breast. Two doctors told her it was “nothing,” but her gut said otherwise. She pressed and found the right specialist. Together they decided on a lumpectomy. This surgical oncologist reassured Harris that the lump was not cancerous, but she advised it be removed despite negative results from two ultrasounds, a MRI, and a needle biopsy.

When the pathology results came back, invasive ductal carcinoma was confirmed. After a double mastectomy, it had also spread to a lymph node. Three surgeries later, Harris is cancer-free and encouraging others.

Her diagnosis led her and her husband to create GottaMakeLemonade.com to “inspire positivity in the face of adversity.” Whether the issue is illness, injury, a relationship disappointment or a career low, the site helps embolden those faced with one of life’s many challenges.

Harris will share her insights about her breast cancer journey at the 16th Annual In the Pink of Health Luncheon on October 14th at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott & Convention Center. She wants to inspire others who are facing challenging situations—whether it is breast or ovarian cancer or another hardship.

Founded in 2001, In the Pink of Health has raised more than $4 million. The money has been reinvested into Montgomery County to fund cutting-edge technology, programs and services for breast and ovarian cancer patients and survivors. For more information, visit http://www.memorialhermann.org/locations/the-woodlands/ or call 713-222-CARE (2273).