KERRY WASHINGTON SAYS HER MOTHER’S CANCER JOURNEY INSPIRES HER TO ‘LIVE FULLY’.(PHOTO).

 Kerry Washington says her mother’s cancer journey inspires her to ‘live fully’

Kerry Washington was honored with the Courage Award by the Women’s Cancer Research Fund, but she insisted the true embodiment of courage is her mother, Valerie. 

Accepting the award at An Unforgettable Evening, Washington reflected on her mother’s strength, calling the recognition “the most undeserved award” she had ever received. 

Valerie, who has faced cancer four times, proudly accompanied her daughter to the event, dressed elegantly in Armani, as Washington praised her resilience and spirit.

In her speech, Washington described her mother as a “badass warrior survivor” and emphasized that Valerie’s unwavering fight to live defines courage more than any accolade. 

She expressed gratitude to the researchers and advocates working to save lives, noting that her mother’s journey has been a constant reminder of hope. 

Speaking later to PEOPLE, Washington reiterated that her mother’s determination to keep going despite repeated battles with cancer is what inspires her most.

Washington has previously shared details of Valerie’s health struggles in her 2023 memoir Thicker Than Water, recounting her mother’s battles with breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancer. 

She recalled learning that the disease had spread widely, describing it as “like sprinkles on ice cream…all over.” Yet, looking back, she now sees her mother’s perseverance as profoundly beautiful. 

For Washington, Valerie’s example underscores the importance of living fully and cherishing every moment, a lesson she carries with her both personally and professionally.