Hi!

My name is Nicole Valverde, I am 20 years old and I am a professional dancer.

I am running a Half Marathon in April to help raise money for Gibraltar Alzheimer's and Dementia Society and Cancer Relief Gibraltar. Both these charities are very close to my heart as I have witnessed family members suffer from these illness'.

My grandfather suffered from Dementia for over a year until eventually passing away. Watching such a strong, caring and powerful man helplessly slip away was heartbreaking for my family and I. The saddest part was not really having the chance to say goodbye, as even whilst he was alive, the person we knew had already disappeared. Realising how much work it is to take care of someone with dementia and how much trauma it causes, I hope that the money I will raise will help provide a Dementia friendly environment for people suffering from this illness and to raise awareness.

My second charity is in memory of my younger cousin Erin. Erin was someone who could light up any room, could make everyone smile and brought joy wherever she went. I always admired her confidence from when we were very young and I continue to do so now. Although her strength is inspiring, she was too young to go through that. This is the kind of pain no person or family should have to go through. The money I raise will help fund to support patients and their families when going through this terrible time.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my just giving page! Every donation, no matter how small, makes a massive difference!