A MUSSELBURGH woman who “spreads sunshine” to others is celebrating being named a finalist in the Young Scot Awards 2020.
Despite having to endure chronic health conditions and mental health challenges, Nicole Gray set up ‘Send A Smile Care Packages’ to help those in need.
The 25-year-old, from the Stoneybank area, is now one of three finalists in the Unsung Hero category of the competition which recognises extraordinary young people aged 11-26 who improve the lives of people in their community.
Nicole, a beauty contestant who won two titles at last year’s Miss Humanitarian UK, is also studying for an Open University degree in health sciences.
Upset by the number of people around her struggling with life, she set up ‘Send A Smile Care Packages,’ preparing and sending packages of gifts, free of charge, to those in need.
Nicole has brittle asthma and has to shield for at least the next three months during the Covid-19 pandemic.
She also suffers from multiple allergies and anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction to a trigger such as an allergy.
Fibromyalgia causes her chronic widespread pain.
She has functional neurological disorder which can result in non-epileptic seizures and functional urinary retention.
Nicole also suffers from functional vomiting and, in April 2018, was fitted with a J-tube into her abdomen which goes directly into part of her small intestines.
This also helps her to manage at home her cyclic vomiting syndrome, which causes episodes of nausea, vomiting and stomach pain.
She has low blood sugar due to her vomiting condition and suffers from depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder as well as depersonalisation disorder.
Described by her friends as a “true inspiration,” she strives to make a positive out of every day, even when her symptoms are most acute.
Her packages are designed to relax, stimulate and put a smile on the face of the recipients – a goal which has been clearly achieved.
Those eligible for one of her parcels of joy include people with a chronic illness, a disability, mental health issues, special needs and children and parents who are caring for a sick family member.
Before sending the packages, Nicole, who pays for all the items herself, spends time getting to know the recipient so she can tailor the gift perfectly, which has inspired shop owners and companies to donate items.
To date, more than 200 individually tailored packages have been sent with a handwritten note.
They include items such as sensory toys, colouring books and toiletries.
During the coronavirus crisis, Nicole is sending gifts to patients at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and Western General Hospital, where she has been treated in the past.
Sponsored by Solace Scotland, the Unsung Hero accolade is presented to a young Scot or group who goes the extra mile but never asks for any recognition or reward.
Nicole was considered “a very strong and determined” person to put such focus on others especially when facing challenges herself.
Judges stated: “She is such a positive influence on everyone she meets and her parcels are spreading sunshine in a world in need of kindness.”
Nicole told the Musselburgh Courier: “I’m still in disbelief that I was, not only nominated, but have been selected as one of the 40 finalists for the awards ceremony.
“I dedicate this nomination to all the recipients who have received a care package as well as the companies, people and small businesses that have kindly donated to the project and those who have helped out in any means, as without all of these fantastic people, there wouldn’t be a care package project.”
It is hoped the winners will be announced at the Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards red carpet ceremony at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on September 7, hosted by Radio 1 DJ Gemma Cairney.
Now in their 14th year, the awards highlight the achievements of young people across Scotland.
Louise Macdonald OBE, chief executive of Young Scot, said: “We’ve heard so many inspiring stories about incredible young people across Scotland doing outstanding things for their communities. Nicole has gone above and beyond.”
To find out more, visit: youngscotawards.com. Follow #YSAwards over the next few months.
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