Christina Applegate on Surviving Breast Cancer: I Have A Responsibility To All The Women Out There

Many stars and their loved ones have been afflicted with some form of cancer. EIF's Women's Cancer Research Fund hosted "An Unforgettable Evening" on Wednesday to draw focus on early detection and research.

Christina Applegate, who publicly survived breast cancer, was presented with the Nat King Cole Award. She used her diagnosis to inspire other women in similar battles. She told ET, "That's the reason that this happened to me, so that I can be outspoken and forthright about everything…I feel like I have a responsibility to all the women out there, to not let them live in fear...Fear perpetuates disease."

Former "Dancing with the Stars" pro dancer Julianne Hough said it was "gracious" for Christina to openly discuss her cancer and allow fans to follow her journey to recovery.