The Talamada is our best event

Tamales for Health

The motto and rallying cry of Latino Health Access is, “We will have a healthier community, even if we have to sell tamales.” This phrase derives from a common Mexican proverb. It signifies that in the face of adversity, the community can call upon their talents to overcome obstacles and accomplish something extraordinary.

We adopted the saying when a patient from our diabetes class became partially blind. Although unable to afford the $5,000 eye surgery to save his vision, he refused to give up. He would have that surgery, even if he had to sell tamales. He was the inspiration for the first tamalada.

Every year, Latino Health Access sells tamales to support accessibility to critical services such as eye surgeries. We remain inspired by the story of this man. The Tamalada demonstrates Latino Health Access’ passion and commitment to community health.