Hannah Thomas attended the event for the first time nearly 10 years ago with a friend who was a Taste of the Finest honoree. “That evening – I heard powerful stories, shed a few tears and had so much fun!” She also made new friends; one who lives with cystic fibrosis. “It changed my perspective. Seeing the daily reality – struggling with the most basic tasks, shortness of breath, wearing a vest that shakes mucus from the lungs – all made a lasting impact.” She remembers limited treatment options and knew “I want to be a part of the cure.” Hannah will welcome friends and families back to Taste of Finest in celebration of the of the chapter’s continued mission fulfillment work in Central Arkansas.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that predominantly affects the lungs, pancreas and digestive system – causing serious infections and complications. Established in 1955, the CF Foundation supports innovative research and medical developments that treat the disease, and as a result, the life expectancy of CF patients has increased dramatically. “At the Arkansas Chapter, we’re creating both hope and tangible progress for those living with cystic fibrosis. We’re funding life-saving research that directly impacts our local CF community – turning what was once a fatal childhood disease into one where people are living longer, fuller lives.” Hannah notes cultivating community is one of the things she loves most about Arkansas and this foundation. “We’re also building a strong support network here in Arkansas, connecting families, patients, and advocates so they never feel alone in the fight. That combination of scientific advancement and personal connection is what truly changes lives in our region.”
Next month, Taste of the Finest returns after a brief hiatus. This extraordinary evening showcases the achievements of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as well as the Finest honorees. These young professionals represent the best + brightest in Central Arkansas – advocating for the foundation and generating invaluable support for life-saving research. “We’ll help accelerate the development of new therapies, expand access to quality care and ultimately bring us closer to a cure.”
Hannah believes Arkansas, especially the Capital City, has a big heart with lots of local support. She learned from her parent’s example. “We’ve been taught that we’re all walking this earth together, why not share what we have and make a difference in someone else’s life? And when you share your passion and your ‘why’ people will show up in one way or another.” She notes that is what the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is about … “Coming together as a community to give and create a better life for families affected by this disease. Every dollar makes a real difference.”
TASTE OF THE FINEST
Friday, October 3 | Argenta Plaza
