First annual Kiss A Pig fundraiser kicks off

The local chapter of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recently kicked off the first annual Kiss A Pig Campaign to benefit the ADA programs of research, education, awareness, and advocacy.

The Kiss A Pig Kiss Off is set for June 10, with an orientation breakfast Tuesday, March 29, at 7:30 a.m. at Golden Corral. Tickets for the Kiss Off are $25.

The event is named Kiss A Pig, because insulin, used to treat diabetes, originally came from a pig's pancreas, and kissing a pig is a symbolic way of giving thanks for helping save lives.

Community leaders selected as candidates raise money for the ADA by collecting “votes” for $1 each. Each candidate is asked to raise $1,500. The candidate with the most votes is allowed the “honor” of kissing the pig.

Candidates for the Kiss A Pig Campaign were introduced at the kick off. Honorary chair for this year's event is Webb County Sheriff Rick Flores. Community leaders who to date have volunteered as candidates include Jorge Verduzco, International Bank of Commerce; Martha Hernandez, Curves; and Mary Capello & Piglets, Texas Migrant Council.

For information on becoming a Kiss A Pig candidate or for information on the event, call Brissa Vela at (956) 796-3224 or call the Laredo/Río Grande Valley ADA office at 1-800-DIABETES. Kiss A Pig is sponsored by Laredo Medical Center and IBC.