The Lapland trip has been a source of joy for more than 1,500 children who have had the opportunity to embark on this magical journey throughout its history.
The most magical trip of a lifetime for Northern Ireland children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions is back this Christmas.
The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust is set to embark on its much-anticipated annual Lapland trip next week bringing joy, excitement, and holiday magic to 85 children.
This heartwarming journey promises to create unforgettable memories for the young participants, many of whom have never even boarded a plane before.
The Lapland adventure has become a cherished tradition for the charity, which was set up in 2008, and will transport the children to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle in Lapland, Finland.
The day will be packed with enchanting activities, including reindeer and husky dog rides, mini skidoo adventures, a snowmobile safari, magic sleigh rides, and a special meeting with Santa Claus himself.
Among the families eagerly awaiting this magical experience are the Beatties from Dundonald and Karen Toal and daughter Rionach Johnston from North Belfast.
Carlee Beattie, mother of nine-year-old Carter, said, “Carter and I can’t wait for the Lapland trip. We are bursting with excitement. Carter is especially looking forward to the husky sleigh ride through the snow and meeting the big man himself, Santa. We are so grateful for this opportunity.”
Karen Toal, mother of five-year-old Rionach, added: “This is a dream come true for us. Rionach is so excited, telling all family and friends. We cannot wait.”
The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland Trust has been a source of joy for more than 1,500 children who have had the opportunity to embark on this magical journey throughout its history.
Colin Barkley, Chair of NI Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust, acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the organisations who make the trip possible. He said,
“There is no greater Christmas gift than providing joy to young children living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and helping alleviate the usual challenges that come with travelling for their families.
“Trips like this are usually impossible for a family supporting children with extra needs, sometimes compounded by the necessity to carry medication, support equipment, and more.
“We take immense pride in lightening their load and offering support through a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, enabling them and their children to create lasting memories in Lapland.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our fantastic supporters TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park and Wild Nordic in Rovaniemi for making this trip seamless.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our wonderful fundraisers across Northern Ireland and our corporate partners including Wineflair, The Bushmills Inn, Hagan Homes, Barclay Communications, C-Tec (NI), Glens of Antrim Potatoes, CosyRoof, Bells of Crossgar, Energystore and Mango. Without you none of this would be possible.”
(PIC) Karen Toal and daughter Rionach Johnston; Deborah Harris, PR & Marketing Manager, Belfast International Airport; Charlotte Brenner, Marketing Manager, TUI Ireland; Carlee Beattie and son Carter; Fiona Williamson, General Manager and Colin Barkley, Chair, Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust; Jean Foster, General Manager, Swissport, Belfast; and Karen Walker, Crew, TUI.