About HANA

"Hana... God's Gift To Our Community And The World!"

Hana is an integral part of the Colorado community. Her great passion for life and for giving is woven into everything she does. As a blend of South Korean and Japanese who grew up in the south from 5 years of age, she arrived in Denver in 1979 expecting to "achieve and learn." 

Believing firmly in the power of prayer, Hana is the quintessential example of faith and perseverance. Hana's tale is not the stuff fairytales are made of, nor that of an easy life. As a young girl Hana was challenged with issues of self reliance and inner strength that even most adults would struggle with. 

Hana was forced to look inside herself for answers that her young age couldn't possibly provide. Hana recalls that at her lowest she experienced one of the most poignant moments of her life. It was in this moment that Hana heard the voice of God. 

What she heard was encouragement. She believed the words to be true. 

As Hana matured, life would continue to test her courage and tenacity. One such challenge was that of cancer. 

Diagnosed with this often deadly disease Hana stood firm believing that even against the odds she would be healed. Fortunately for us, she was. From her young difficult years until this day Hana has been blessed with wisdom that far exceeds her years. 

Even she recognizes it but is quick to say she "searches" for wisdom and is a perpetual study of truth and understanding. One of the things she values most is gleening pearls of wisdom from older women who often have the advantage of experience under their belt. 

Hana continually asks herself "what would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?" Combining this philosophy together with her own life experience has graced Hana with a spirit that shines bright, even amongst the stars! 

Today Hana owns an Aveda salon in Littleton called Hana Designs and is the founder of Hana's Hope. "Hana's Hope" is a non profit that helps people with hair loss free of charge and has been giving away free, customized wigs for anyone with hair loss for the last 15 years. 

She has literally changed the lives of hundreds children and adults through her generosity of spirit in this area. There is a movie being made about her extraordinary life. 

The Colorado community celebrates Hana and her life of giving. We applaud you Hana! And we stand as support for you as you impact our world!

By Gina Dickerson
Publisher Tasting Denver