16th Annual Each Moment Matters Luncheon Inspires Hope, Healing and Heartfelt Connection

There was an unmistakable feeling of purpose and grace inside the Imperial Ballroom at the Hilton Anatole on Thursday, October 16, as more than 500 guests gathered for the Forefront Living Foundation’s (FLF) 16th annual Each Moment Matters Luncheon (EMM). The occasion, co-chaired by the dynamic mother-daughter duo Susan and Lora Farris, was a celebration of compassion, courage and the enduring impact of community support.

The luncheon benefits the Faith Presbyterian Hospice (FPH) Caring Fund, which maintains that no patient or family walks their journey alone. The Caring Fund helps underwrite care for those without financial means, provides bereavement services for grieving children and supports programs known as the “Faith Difference.” These include music and massage therapies and the tender companionship of pet therapy – small gestures that bring profound comfort during life’s most tender moments.

Guests were warmly welcomed by Diane Fullingim, FLF Executive Director who shared her sincere gratitude to everyone involved. Emcee Jason Whitely of WFAA Channel 8 spoke from the heart about covering stories related to Forefront Living and how its mission of compassionate, dignified care continues to touch lives across North Texas.

Throughout the event, the power of generosity was brought to life through stories and heartfelt reflection. CEO Tim Mallad shared personal accounts of friends who received care at the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center, reminding guests that the impact of their support is both real and deeply human.

A particularly moving moment came as attendees watched a video featuring twins Finley and Harper, who spoke candidly about losing their mother and how the Child Life program at FPH helped them find hope and healing. Their words and smiles were a testament to the compassion made possible through the Caring Fund.

Honoring those who embody service and love for others, this year’s EMM honorees were recognized: Francis Harrison nominated by Alison Doherty, Isaiah Stanback nominated by Michelle Bobadilla, Natalie and David Taylor nominated by Susan Farris, Clarice Tinsley nominated by Neil Foote, Marty Turco nominated by Al Montoya, Sarah and David Vobora nominated by Andy Walsh and the 2025 Business Honoree CliftonLarsonAllen nominated by Steve Ailey. Guests also applauded Honorary Co-Chairs Robyn and Don Conlon, whose longtime support has helped the luncheon flourish year after year. Click here to learn more about each honoree.

As lunch concluded, guests were treated to a memorable keynote conversation between Tim Mallad and actor Joe Lando, best known for his role as Byron Sully on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Lando shared an emotional account of losing his home in the Pacific Palisades fire earlier this year. He spoke openly about grief, gratitude and the unexpected kindness of friends and strangers who are helping him rebuild. His story of loss and renewal resonated deeply, weaving perfectly into the day’s theme of finding meaning and strength in each moment.

The luncheon surpassed its goal of raising $600,000 in support of the Caring Fund, which will allow FPH to continue providing compassionate care and comfort to those who need it most.

By the end of the afternoon, guests left not only inspired but transformed. Through stories of hope, shared tears and shared purpose, the Each Moment Matters Luncheon reminded everyone that compassion is timeless, healing is possible and that when a community comes together, each moment truly does matter. Learn more about the mission of the luncheon and how you can help support it, here.

Photos by simonluna.com

by Wendy Van Bemmel