As the holiday season approaches, it's all about spending time with family and friends, but many of us also take this time to give back. Kathy Bates is leading by example, using her platform to make a difference. The celebrated actress is on a mission to help find a cure for lymphedema, a condition she knows all too well. Speaking exclusively to Closer Weekly at the 13th annual CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute, the 71-year-old shared her hopes for the future. “It’s been a privilege to help people in the real world,” she said. “We’re working tirelessly to find a cure. I’m optimistic that within the next five years, we’ll achieve our goal. Fingers crossed!”
Lymphedema is a condition that affects millions of people in the U.S., yet it often goes undiagnosed and untreated. For Kathy, this cause hits close to home. She has been managing lymphedema herself after undergoing a double mastectomy. "This disease affects 10 million people in this country, and many are suffering without proper care or early diagnosis," she explained passionately. "It’s a progressive condition with no known cure yet, but we’re determined to change that. My hope is to bring awareness and resources to those who need it most."
Kathy's Personal Journey with Lymphedema
Throughout her life, Kathy Bates has faced numerous health challenges, including two battles with cancer—breast and ovarian. Her resilience and determination have not only inspired fans worldwide but have also fueled her advocacy work. Reflecting on her experiences, she opened up to Closer Weekly at the WebMD Health Hero Awards in New York City. "Cancer teaches you to value every single moment," she said. "If you can hold on to that perspective as a cancer survivor, it’s truly transformative. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to use my platform to help others."
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Her journey has been marked by both struggle and triumph. "When you go through something as life-altering as cancer, you realize how important it is to cherish the people around you," she continued. "Technology has made it easier to stay connected with loved ones, and that’s been a lifeline for me. In tough times, having a support system makes all the difference."
Opening Up About Privacy and Vulnerability
While Kathy is now open about her health battles, she admitted that she wishes she had been more forthcoming during her initial diagnosis. "If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t have been so private," she confessed. "Attending cancer-related events and seeing other women who are brave enough to show up bald—it’s incredibly moving. There’s strength in vulnerability, and I’ve learned so much from the community of survivors and fighters."
Her candidness has resonated with fans and fellow survivors alike. Kathy’s message of hope and perseverance serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find light through connection and compassion. "Cancer doesn’t define me, but it has shaped me," she reflected. "It’s given me a purpose beyond my career, one that allows me to give back and inspire others to do the same."
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