Dominic Valdez is willing to go the extra mile for his real estate clients in Cheyenne, and he’s doing the same thing in the battle to end Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, he’s just gone 65 miles.
A realtor at RE/MAX Capitol Properties who serves southeast Wyoming, Valdez was among more than 340 cyclists who completed the recent Ride to End ALZ cycling event in Fort Collins, CO. The goal of the Ride was to raise $400,000, with 100% of the funds going to research to find a cure for Alzheimer’s. Thus far, the event has raised over $340,000.
Valdez’ team, which rode the event’s 65-mile route, raised $4,215 against a goal of $2,500.
“I ride for those who can't,” said Valdez. “I've had too many friends and family members affected by Alzheimer's and dementia, either directly or indirectly.”
A cyclist since the age of 4, Valdez has found inspiration through a friend, Gary Melinkovich, a pediatrician in Cody and at the Cheyenne Children’s Clinic, who died in 2012 from complications of younger-onset Alzheimer’s.
“Gary was a brilliant pediatric doc and avid cyclist,” said Valdez. “He elevated my appreciation and love for cycling to another level. We rode many miles together as he taught me the subtleties, etiquette, traditions, terminology and language of cycling. I think of him often while I'm riding and it's motivated me to get involved with the fight against this insidious disease.”
Valdez’ commitment to the Alzheimer’s cause isn’t limited to biking. He also serves as a member of the board for the Wyoming chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“As a board member, Dom continues to engage in all aspects of our mission,” said Debra Antista-Bianchi, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Wyoming. “His commitment to the Ride to End Alzheimer’s is inspirational to me. I cannot wait to work with him this coming year, to introduce this event to other cyclists in Wyoming who also have a heart for our work and for the research.”
To support Valdez’ fundraising efforts, click here. To learn more about the programs and services offered at no charge by the Alzheimer's Association, go to
alz.org or call the Association’s free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.