An Ode to Vogue: Philanthropy + Fashion
By KIM MEYER WEBB | Photography by RETT PEEK | Hair and Makeup by SUZY BALKMAN with Bristle + Balm | Wardrobe from Barbara Jean
Rachel Sims believes authentic relationships build better communities. “I love how everything in Little Rock feels so local. It seems like everywhere we go, there’s a connection to discover – whether it’s the boutiques, eclectic restaurants or even CARTI.” Next month, Rachel will welcome guests to Festival of Fashion for an evening of Champagne wishes that blends the best of the Capital City into an unforgettable < and very VOGUE > evening of fashion + fun. Proceeds support the exceptional patient care that CARTI provides and its finite focus on each family’s cancer journey.
As a registered nurse practitioner with a compassionate heart for service, Rachel was initially introduced to CARTI through her breast reconstruction patients. “I walked through hard, but joyous times with these women and heard about their amazing experiences at CARTI,” she explains. Rachel realized “a connection with CARTI” and “wanted to volunteer in any way possible.” Much like her professional perspective, as her clients become friends and she is invested in their lives, her civic leadership blends seamlessly into good times for a greater good. Erin Hohnbaum, her closest confidante and proprietor of E. Leigh’s Boutique, encouraged Rachel to join the committee for Festival of Fashion – recognizing the power of philanthropy and fun. “What’s not to love about the city’s most stylish event? Fashion and friends celebrating the lives that CARTI saves.”
CARTI is the largest, private cancer clinic in Arkansas and remains steadfast in its mission to make treatment available to as many Arkansans as possible. With its all-inclusive cancer treatment center and statewide network of clinics that administer radiation + chemotherapy, CARTI serves more than 23,000 Arkansans annually.
It’s the focus on the complete wellness of each patient at CARTI – including programs that provide emotional and spiritual support – that impresses Rachel. “From my first visit to the new CARTI Cancer Center, I realized – in addition to the amazing care that CARTI gives its patients – how gorgeous and peaceful it is. That’s a perfect combination and where I want to always send my patients.” CARTI Foundation Director Michaela Johnson adds “CARTI’s priority is to make the patient experience convenient, comprehensive and enriching while providing the most advanced cancer treatment available. Our patients and their families are our highest priority and our mission includes making CARTI’s world-class cancer care easily accessible to all Arkansans.”
The resilient spirit of survivors is evident throughout the Central Arkansas and the resounding adoration for the CARTI family of caregivers is undeniable. It’s intertwined in the cancer center’s legacy of service – spanning more than four decades – and the lives that have been saved as a result. Rachel reflects, “I love hearing the CARTI stories of hope and healing.”
