When one of their own became unexpectedly diagnosed with a rare kidney disease, a group of lifelong Tampa friends joined forces to host a backyard barbecue cookoff, and they called it the Pig Jig.
The small fundraiser initially intended to help their friend, Will Wellman, face the medical expenses associated with his FSGS diagnosis. What began as a backyard competition among friends gained steam and grew into the Tampa Pig Jig on the River, an annual waterfront fundraiser featuring nationally recognized country and rock music artists, delicious food, ice-cold beer, a corporate BBQ competition, and more!
Since its inception in 2011, the HopeWill Foundation (formerly Old Florida Foundation) has hosted the Tampa Pig Jig, donating millions to NephCure, the only nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for rare, protein-spilling kidney disease. With a goal to ‘Cue Up a Cure for FSGS, the Pig Jig has become NephCure’s largest annual donor nationwide and has helped launch more than 60 clinical trials.
Though our event has grown, our mission has always been the same-- to raise awareness and funding for NephCure, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting research, improving treatment, and finding a cure for the rare and debilitating kidney disease, FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis), and Nephrotic Syndrome.
Join us for an unforgettable night of music, friends, and 'cueing up a cure!