Fundraiser to benefit Lampasan seeking liver transplant surgery

Sept. 16 is the date for a fund-raising event to benefit Lampasan Manuel Torrez Jr., a 49-year-old Lampasas High School graduate who was diagnosed this year with non-alcoholic end-stage liver disease.

Torrez, who was born and reared in Lampasas, participated in football, basketball, track and baseball while in high school and was a member of the band, Spanish Club and Thespian Club.

He worked at the former Bowden's Restaurant, Crocker's Food Mart, H-E-B and the former TG&Y store that preceded Wal-Mart.

Torrez also coached boys' and girls' Little Dribblers and Little League baseball and served as an umpire. He played softball for the Aces, Hijackers and Chaparrals. He has held a variety of jobs until his diagnosis earlier this year.

Torrez and his wife of 21 years, Charlie, are the parents of six children and have four grandchildren. He is the son of Manuel R. Torrez Sr. and Dolores Curiel Torrez.

Torrez was told he needs a liver transplant, and to be placed on the list, a $200,000 deposit must be made.

Funds are being raised locally, including a dance that was held recently, and organizers are planning a second event at AMVETS Post 80 in Lampasas. Plans call for an auction, a cake walk, raffles and queen's contests.

Queen contestants will be elected based upon the amount of money each is able to raise through donations. Candidates are those ages 5 to 7; 15 to 21; and 65 and older.

Potential candidates may register at AMVETS on the day of the contest beginning at 1 p.m.

The benefit will run until 6 p.m., at which time the winners will be announced.

A dance will close out the day's events from 6-10 p.m.

Organizers note they plan to hold monthly events until the funds are raised. Money collected is being placed into an account through the American Liver Foundation, a non-profit organization.

For more information on upcoming events, phone Mary Sue Ramirez at 556-9622.