Valerie is the mother of Margaret and Larry. She has worked as the cafeteria manager at Guerrero Elementary School and plans to return to school at Arizona State University to pursue a two-year program in Criminology. Her goal is to become a Juvenile Probation Officer.

Valerie says that when Margaret was diagnosed with Malignant Fibrosis Histiosytoma at the age of 10 it was a devastating experience, emotionally, physically and financially. Her son, who was starting Junior High School at the time of Margaret’s diagnosis, struggled. Looking back, Valerie said the experience was both the worst thing and the best thing to ever happen to them. They grew and became closer as a family and appreciate all the amazing positive people who helped them.