Kiss A Pig event to benefit American Diabetes Association

Volunteers for the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are spearheading the 1st Annual Kiss A Pig event in Laredo, a fundraiser 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. Kick off for the event is Thursday, April 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Laredo Medical Center , Tower B, first floor. Tickets for the April 14 kick-off are $15 person, and tickets for the June 10 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 will be introduced at the April 14 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, IBC; Martha Hernandez, Curves; Sheriff Rick Flores; 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.