Marthann Masterson, Contemporary Artist
Marthann Masterson is a native Houstonian now in her third career as an artist. She still speaks fondly of her first two professions as a chef and television personality, but it is her richly layered drip paintings, which are regularly commissioned by private patrons and local venues, that fuel her passion these days.
Marthann expresses immense gratitude for her life—one she never thought possible. Early in her career as a caterer for celebrities and politicians, she struggled with alcohol, and although her journey to sobriety was difficult, it transformed her life. Embracing sobriety helped her realize the importance of reducing anxiety and living with purpose. She once thought she wouldn't make it past 41, as her parents passed away young, but now she is sober and thriving.
She is blessed with a wonderful marriage and is also deeply thankful for her family. Her son, his wife, and their three children have been a great source of pride. Her grandchildren are remarkable—one is working in New York, another in Dallas, and one locally. According to Marthann, they are being raised by incredible parents, something she deeply appreciates.
Marthann's art career has also been a blessing. A mentor helped her discover her passion for abstract painting, guiding her in techniques that now define her work. His influence was a gift, and she has been able to create art that brings joy to others.
"I cherish my dogs, my sense of humor, and the warmth I feel toward others. These elements bring joy into my daily life, whether in the studio or with my family," says Marthann. "Despite a difficult start, I'm profoundly grateful for the life I live now."
Marthann's work is available locally at the Jack Meier Gallery and in Cabo San Lucas at the Pez Gordo Gallery. marthannmasterson.com
Dr. Yvonne Jenkins, Co-Owner, Today's Vision River Oaks
Dr. Yvonne Jenkins, co-owner and optometrist with Today's Vision River Oaks, has been part of a mission trip called Sending Out Servants since 2018. This annual vision mission takes place in the remote town of Joyabaj, Guatemala, located about five and a half hours from Guatemala City. Along with a team of volunteers, she provides eye exams, glasses, and treatments for eye diseases like cataracts and glaucoma to the Mayan community. The team also performs surgeries and offers medical screenings for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which are prevalent in the area.
During the trip, Dr. Jenkins and fellow volunteers examine up to 800 patients in a week, assisted by ophthalmic assistants, nurses, and volunteers. The language barrier adds another layer of complexity, as the local people primarily speak a dialect called K'iche'. The team relies on trilingual translators to bridge the communication gap from English to Spanish and K'iche'.
Dr. Jenkins had always wanted to do meaningful work. After building her practice in Cypress and raising her children, the timing aligned in 2017 when she ended a business partnership. A conversation with an old colleague, who had already been part of the mission, inspired her to join, and she agreed immediately.
Her motivation stems from a desire to help and empower others. Reflecting on her career, she notes that participating in the mission trip re-energized her passion for her work. The experience reminds her daily of the importance of gratitude, something she practices regularly. todaysvisionriveroaks.com
Hope Biosciences Research Foundation
Hope Biosciences Research Foundation (HBRF) hosted its Inaugural Gala on October 26 at the Post Oak Hotel in Uptown Houston. The evening celebrated groundbreaking research, transformative partnerships, and the lives changed through the foundation's pioneering work in regenerative medicine. Proceeds from the event supported HBRF's ongoing research and FDA-authorized clinical trials, focusing on adult cell therapy to treat chronic, "incurable" conditions such as Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and lupus.
Jessica Rossman and Gordon Bethune, both passionate supporters of HBRF, co-chaired the gala. For Rossman, a native Houstonian, the event was personal. "This is more than just another cause," she explained. "HBRF is leading cutting-edge healthcare right here in Houston, and it's making a real difference in people's lives. We want others to experience the hope we've felt through their work."
Bethune's connection to HBRF began as a patient. Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, he sought out the foundation's innovative therapies as an alternative to conventional treatments. "I didn't want to be reliant on medications and lose my quality of life," he shared. Over time, Bethune became a "Visionary Sponsor" and now serves as a dedicated board member. "It's been a privilege to help HBRF further their research and expand their reach. They genuinely care about people, and that's why I'm so committed."
One of the highlights of the evening was the spotlight on HBRF's Compassionate Use program, the largest of its kind globally, which provides regenerative therapies to patients ineligible for traditional clinical trials. "Philanthropy plays a crucial role in making these treatments accessible," said Rossman. "HBRF offers these therapies at no cost, ensuring that even underserved populations can participate in groundbreaking research."
Bethune echoed her sentiment, adding, "Supporting HBRF means helping others receive the care that's helped me. It's about giving back and ensuring this vital work continues." www.hopebio.org