There’s a new gala in H-town, folks, and it made its grand, sold-out debut thanks to a power couple known for believing that the sky's the limit when it comes to local philanthropy. Chairs Jessica Rossman and Gordon Bethune piloted the inaugural Hope Biosciences Research Foundation (HBRF) fundraiser on October 26 at the Post Oak Hotel in Uptown Houston.
The event spotlighted the organization’s strides in regenerative medicine, fueling advancements in adult stem cell therapies for conditions often deemed incurable, such as Parkinson’s Disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.
The evening offered patrons a deeper look into the group’s pioneering work, led by co-founders Donna and Daniel Chang. More than 400 supporters — many of whom have witnessed the impact of HBRF’s clinical trials on their health and the lives of loved ones — were enticed to partake in the event by a host committee helmed by Donae, Bella, and Rob Chramosta.
Sherry Diers and David Gonzales, hosts of the foundation’s Hopeful News Network podcast, shared heartfelt stories from their hands-on experiences with HBRF patients. In a touching moment, high school senior Bella Chramosta recounted her own health journey before announcing the inaugural HBRF Luminary Award recipients — Ema Suljkanovic, Rachel Phillips, and Alayna Nunez. The three Kingwood High School students had raised $1,400 for the foundation, and Houston icon Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale proudly presented the award.
HBRF offered a Hope-inspired jewelry pull, sponsored by Thomas Markle Jewelers. Each silver necklace entry doubled as a ticket for a chance to win a diamond version of the necklace — 2.27 carats in 18kt white gold, valued at $7,500. The winning ticket, drawn by Sarah and Phillip Markle, brought cheers from those who purchased necklaces throughout the evening. Guests enjoyed a silent auction chaired by Cathy Jackson, featuring everything from health and beauty experiences to travel packages like golfing at St. Andrews and fishing in Cabo.
Gala-goers were treated to a meaningful musical performance by Faith and Jon Hartlage. Upon departure, each guest received a gift from Hope Biosciences, LLC — a tube of Wondercell gel, an anti-aging product made from stem cell byproducts, as a reminder of the foundation’s impact both inside and outside the lab.
Seen on the scene were Ginger and Dick Hite, Maria and Omar Alaoui, Roslyn Bazzelle Mitchell, Cheryl Byington, Gracie and Bob Cavnar, Anna Dean, Karen and Peter Remington, Dr. Romy Dell’Ario, Jan Duncan, Nene Foxhall, Mandy Kao, Stacey Lindseth, Linda McIngvale, Beth Muecke, Patti Murphy, Jennifer Pinkerton, Rachel and Tom Regan, Dallas Rowdan, Ally Shell, Natalie Wall, Christina Zhou, Tama Lundquist and Dr. Peter Farrell, Stephanie and Gary Loveless, Azeemeh Zaheer, Chris Perry, Gregg Harrison, and Dr. Roland Maldonado.
Photo by Si Vo
Jim McIngvale, Bella Chramosta, Donna Chang, Alayna Nunez, and Ema Suljkanovic.
