Hope for Depression Research Foundation Luncheon

Audrey Gruss, the founder of the Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF) hosted the organizations 15th annual luncheon and seminar at the Plaza Hotel. The event honored Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps with the Hope Award for Depression Advocacy and Jim Irsay the owner of the Indianapolis Colts with the Community Ambassador of Hope Award. Chuck Scarborough was the witty Master of Ceremonies. The seminar focused on “The Importance of the Gut Microbiome for Your Mental Health” with remarks by Dr.Conor Liston while Dr.Helen Mayberg spoke about brain circuits and depression. HDRF’s Executive Director Louisa Benton announced the upcoming Race of Hope in Palm Beach on February 26th, 2022.Thelunch concluded with an inspirational Q & A with Phelps by Gruss. Guests included members of HDRF’s renowned Depression Task Force: Dr. Kafui Dzirasa, Dr. René Hen, Dr. Jonathan Javitch and Dr. Eric Nestler. The benefits co-chairs were Jamee and Peter Gregory, Maru Hagerty and Barbara and Randall Smith. The event drew 300 guests including Janna Bullock, Judith Siskin, Krista Bard, Lynne Wheat, Jean Shafir off and Maria Fishel who helped to raise over $750,000 for mental health research.hopefordepression.org.