Carryduff family enjoys dream trip at Disneyland Paris

Carryduff family enjoys dream trip at Disneyland Paris

24 May 2023

A CARRYDUFF family have experienced the magic of Disney thanks to a local charity.

Darren and Jenna Kane and their three children, Keira, Noah and Eva, spent three unforgettable days at Disneyland Paris.

Their trip was made possible by the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust, a charity that makes dreams come true for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

A total of 12 children jetted off from Belfast International Airport along with their parents, siblings and a team of health professionals and support workers.

Set up 12 years ago, the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust takes 100 local children to Lapland every winter, chartering an exclusive flight for the experience.

The trip to Paris, which was last organised in 2015, has been brought back by the charity to accommodate children whose conditions would not allow them to face the harsh temperatures of its annual Lapland trip.

Trust chairman Colin Barkley said: “We are delighted to resume what is a truly memorable trip for these very deserving children who have been battling their own challenges so admirably alongside their very supportive families.

 “Our trips are painstakingly put together to ensure the parents and families of those involved feel no pressure and are supported every step of the way by healthcare professionals and our own staff.

“When a child is very ill, it affects the whole family. Yes, these trips are expensive, but it is impossible to put a value on the benefits and positive impact the experience will have on the children and their families.

 Mr Barkley added: “The move to resume our Disneyland Paris trip was in part due to the efforts of our fundraisers and corporate partners. Without them, these trips, which make lasting memories for these families, would not be possible.

“Our goal is to give these very special children something to remember and to continue to offer this trip on a more regular basis by intensifying our activity and encouraging more organisations to support us.”

NICLT supporters recently raised £10,000 by abseiling down the Europa Hotel in Belfast. The charity has more events planned to help generate even more funds, including a gala ball later this month.