HOUSTON – The Omni Houston was abuzz with energy on October 25, as over 500 supporters came together to celebrate resilience and raise awareness for breast cancer research at the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF) Luncheon. This inspiring gathering reinforced the Foundation’s dedication to a future free from breast cancer, funding groundbreaking research that brings us closer every day to eradicating this devastating disease.
The luncheon saw the NOBCF proudly announce its ongoing support of three pioneering projects, with donations to Baylor College of Medicine’s Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center (led by Dr. Xiang Zhang), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Dr. Isabelle Bedrosian), and the Department of Nanomedicine at Houston Methodist Research Institute (Dr. Alessandro Grattoni). These contributions are crucial steps in advancing innovative treatments and, one day, achieving a cure.
Terri Guerra, the chairperson of NOBCF, thanked attendees warmly for their unwavering support, announcing an exciting lineup for the coming year, including the highly anticipated Fashion for the Cure event set for Spring 2025! “Together, we are making a difference,” Guerra affirmed, “and with your help, we’ll continue fueling research that changes lives.”
The event honored its generous Diamond Sponsors—Peggie Kohnert, Richard Yount, and Jennifer Hernandez/Legacy Mutual Mortgage—and celebrated all sponsors, donors, and participants, including the Villages, the Houston Association of Realtors and TK Images. The thrilling silent auction brought both spirited competition and heartfelt contributions, underscoring the strength of community support for this life-changing mission.
Deborah Duncan, host and senior producer of KHOU-TV, Channel 11’s, Great Day Houston emceed the event with her trademark warmth, humor, and compassion, setting the stage for an afternoon that touched hearts and inspired action.
Featured speaker Mark Willis, a prominent CEO who lost his wife to breast cancer, shared a moving story of love and resilience, leaving everyone with a renewed commitment to the cause. Mark then shocked the crowd with the surprise announcement of a generous $10,000 donation to the foundation, sparking a wave of applause and inspiring even more support for the fight against breast cancer. This incredible gesture motivated our Diamond Sponsor, Peggie Kohnert, to match all donations given by attendees that day, up to an additional $10,000, doubling the impact and fueling hope for a cure.
One of the luncheon’s highlights was the presentation of the coveted “Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award,” a tribute to strength and perseverance, awarded this year to Jennifer Bowlin, a cancer survivor and shining example of courage in the real estate industry. Jennifer’s inspiring words moved the entire room, reminding us of the strength and hope that defines NOBCF’s mission.
The Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation honors the memory and legacy of Nancy Owens, a beloved Houston real estate icon who fought breast cancer with unwavering courage for 20 years. Her dream to help others by advancing breast cancer research continues to drive NOBCF’s efforts, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to local research projects.
This unforgettable luncheon was made possible by the unwavering dedication of the NOBCF’s volunteer committee and board members, including Terri Guerra, Chairman, Amy Bernstein, David Gugino, Gloria Moorman, Jennifer Hernandez, Mariella Massa, Mary Piper and Peggie Kohnert, committee members include Christina Sacco, Elizabeth Rankin Rice, Modie Piperi , Randee Kaplan, Tamara Mannen, Vicki Fullerton, and Ellie Riney the event coordinator. Their commitment fuels the hope that NOBCF brings to breast cancer patients and survivors throughout the region. “I love this committee more than anything,” shared Chairman Terri Guerra. “Their tireless dedication and hard work reflect the passion they share. They are truly the best group of people I have ever had the pleasure to work with.”
As one of Houston’s largest Realtor-organized charities, the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation remains committed to finding a cure. For more information on how you can support the cause or make a donation, visit NancyOwens.org or email info@nancyowens.org.
Together, we are creating a world without breast cancer—one step, one event, and one breakthrough at a time.
