Each year at the Breath of Life Gala, the Arkansas chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation honors an individual who exhibits exceptional dedication to the fight against cystic fibrosis. This year's winner of the Breath of Life Award was Curtis Barnett, senior vice president of Enterprise Internal Operations at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. The gala was held Oct. 17 at the Little Rock Marriott.
Other awards presented during the program were Hero of Hope, given to Terri Holmes; Claudia Fulton Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, Beth Leal; Milestone Award for Outstanding Contribution, Dr. Paula Anderson; and Corporate Champion of the Year, Hallmark.
The evening began with a reception and silent auction. The program, emceed by Craig O'Neill, included remarks by mother and daughter Julie Miller and Jordan Miller, a live auction and music by Riverbilly. Serving as event chairman was Jerry Pavlas.
The mission of the foundation is to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full and productive lives. About 450 guests helped raise $175,000.
-- Story and photos by
Cary Jenkins
High Profile on 10/25/2015