B. Smith is a true American success story. Born in rural western Pennsylvania and faced with what would be for most insurmountable obstacles, Barbara “B.” Smith was one of the first supermodels. She wrote three highly acclaimed cookbooks and over a 28-year period founded three successful restaurants, while also launching a nationally syndicated television show and a magazine. She is still the only African-American woman with home products distributed exclusively at Bed Bath & Beyond. She is also a recipient of numerous national and local awards for helping those in need.

In 2014, Smith revealed that she had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease, sharing her story so that she could help eliminate the stigma that is associated with the disease.

Dan Gasby has been a television media sales executive and a television producer for both network & syndicated programs. He helped publish and launch B.’s eponymous magazine and helped cofound her lifestyle retail brand. Dan and B. were married in 1992.

Since B.s diagnosis, Dan has traveled the country speaking and increasing awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and the need for increased funding for research. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Brain Foundation.