She tried to 'put on a brave face' [=she tried to appear brave or calm] despite the pain of the injury.
You can refuse to talk to her if you like, but you're just 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'.
They made it on time 'in spite of the fact' that they got a flat tire.
(..) - Prego. Give this to Clemenza. I want people that aren't going to get carried away. We're not murderers, in spite of what this undertaker says. - Where's Michael? - Don't worry, he'll be here. We're not taking the picture without Michael. - What's the matter? (..)1972 The Godfather