Hi! My name is Meredith Harbin, the captain of the Havana Club team! I am proudly participating in the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's in honor of my father, Nestor Pino-Marina.  

My dad was a man like no other, to know him was to love him.  Originally from Havana, Cuba, Nestor was a devoted husband, father and friend who proudly served the United States Army for 27 years, including 2 tours in Vietnam, where he earned a Silver Star Medal.  While there are countless stories of his acts of heroism, he took the most pride in being a husband and father.  A truly selfless man, that never met a stranger - friends and family were blessed to share in his humor, determination, encouragement and generosity.  

In 2002, as I was starting college - our families lives would be changed forever as my dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.  We were devastated and fearful of the unknowns of how the diagnosis would affect him and our family, but being raised a "Pino" meant we don't quit and as a family we would fight this disease together.  Over the years, we savored the good times together and supported each other through the darkest days when dad's disease would overcome the man that we all loved so much.

On June 15, 2013, we said our final goodbye to our dad as he passed away at home from Alzheimer's disease.  A bittersweet moment, losing a loved one, but also finding peace knowing that he was free from this terrible disease.

We will walk on October 26th to honor the unwavering courage and strength of our dad, with the hope that by raising awareness and funds we can advance the fight against this disease.   

Families facing Alzheimer’s and all other dementia need support — and with your help, we can be there for them. 

Please consider making a donation or registering JOIN MY TEAM and walk with me!  Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease.

Our family can't thank you enough for the support!