SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians is proud to support the Huntington Disease Society of America – San Diego (HDSA) as presenting sponsor of the organization’s Celebration of Hope Gala.

The Gala is HDSA’s signature event, raising awareness and funds as it gives hope to the families suffering from the horrific disease. Huntington’s disease (HD) is a devastating, genetically caused brain disorder that causes brain cells to die and systematically robs people of their ability to walk, talk, eat and think. Eventually, the person with HD becomes totally dependent upon others for his or her care.

Viejas Tribal Chairman Anthony R. Pico said, “We are very proud of our Band’s ongoing support of HDSA-San Diego and the Gala. HD is a debilitating disease and we share the commitment to research, treatment and support for patients and families impacted by HD. We call on the entire community to join Viejas in this mission.”

“This is HDSA-San Diego’s 11th annual Celebration of Hope Gala and quite possibly going to be the biggest yet,” said Bill Johnston, HDSA-San Diego board member. “We are confident that, through the support of San Diegans and groups like the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, we will soon be able to put an end to Huntington’s disease.”

The Gala is also an opportunity to honor San Diego community leaders, philanthropists, and distinguished individuals involved in the fight against HD. At this year’s Gala, supporters will have a rare opportunity to dive into America’s Game with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, ESPN’s Chris Berman, NFL Network’s Rich Eisen, Steve Mariucci, Marshall Faulk, Deion Sanders, and Michael Irvin.

The event also features one of Southern California’s largest silent and live auctions with items ranging from rare sports memorabilia, vacation packages and more. For more information on the 2011 Celebration of Hope Gala, visit www.hdsasandiego.org or call (619) 225-2255.

About Huntington’s Disease Society of America

HSDA is the Nation’s largest 501(C)3 non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to providing help for today and hope for tomorrow for everyone affected by HD. HDSA is committed to providing support for at-risk individuals and caregivers, public advocacy, and the search for treatments and a cure of this devastating disease. HDSA-San Diego, one of 31 chapters of HDSA, services all of San Diego and Imperial Counties through its network of volunteers. HDSA-San Diego sponsors a monthly support group for affected families, raises money for the care and cure of HD, helps support a Center of Excellence for Family Services, publishes an annual report, and provides a range of other services to the HD community. For more information and ways you can help HDSA please visit www.HDSASanDiego.org.

About the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians is a sovereign Nation whose people have inhabited the San Diego County area for thousands of years. The 1,600 acre Viejas Indian Reservation is located near Alpine, California, approximately 35 miles east of San Diego. For more information on the history and current government of the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians visit www.viejasbandofkumeyaay.org.