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Each year, we invite supporters to nominate their beloved four-legged friends to become Beatson Cancer Charity's official Ambassadog. This special role involves representing the charity at events, helping raise awareness and putting smiles on supporters' faces across the west of Scotland.
This year, following over 4500 public votes, we're delighted to introduce Nico, a three-year-old Toy Poodle whose story left pawprints on the hearts of our Beatson community.
A Gift at the Right Time
Nico came into his owner Natalie's life during a difficult period for her family.
Gifted to her by her dad and brother, Nico quickly became a much-loved companion. The timing proved especially meaningful, as Natalie's dad was undergoing treatment for cancer at the time.
Although he sadly passed away, Natalie treasures the fact that he was able to spend time with Nico and see the joy he brought into her life.
"I believe Nico was waiting for me," Natalie said. "I don't believe that I picked him."
Looking back, she is grateful to her dad and brother for encouraging her to get a dog, something she had always been hesitant about.
"It was him that spoke about the joy and everything that he can bring, and I'm so glad that I listened to him."
A Constant Companion
Not long after welcoming Nico into her home, Natalie faced a cancer diagnosis of her own.
Throughout treatment and recovery, Nico became a constant source of comfort and companionship.
"He never left my side and gave me a purpose to get up in the morning."
Describing him as "an absolute bundle of joy", Natalie says Nico brought light to some of life's most difficult moments.
"He has filled my life with so much joy, and I couldn't imagine my life without him."
A Special Connection to Beatson
Natalie's connection to Beatson Cancer Charity began during her dad's cancer journey, accompanying him to appointments and supporting him through treatment.
After his death, she continued supporting the charity through fundraising and by accessing our bereavement support. Following her own diagnosis, that connection grew even stronger.
"It feels like a family, like an extension of what I have got at home."
Ready for a Busy Year as Ambassadog
Natalie entered Nico into the Ambassadog competition because she wanted others to experience some of the comfort and happiness he has brought to her life.
"If he can cheer anybody up, that's what I'm looking for him to do," she said. "Sometimes in the darkest days, I know the difference that he's made to me."
After being crowned Ambassadog, Nico celebrated in style with a steak dinner before beginning his year as Beatson Cancer Charity's newest furry representative.
He'll have a busy schedule over the coming months attending events, meeting supporters and helping spread awareness of the charity's work.
When asked what she hopes people will know about Nico, Natalie's answer was simple:
"He's just an amazing wee ball of love. He'll never know how much he's done for me, and I hope that he can bring some happiness to others and the charity."
And if she had to sum up what Nico means to her in just one sentence?
"The love of my life." 🐾
