At this time of year, we recognise that Christmas can be a difficult time for families who are facing a childhood cancer diagnosis. All the usual festive activities, trips to see Santa and big gatherings with friends often must stop during treatment, in order to protect the children from infection and so it can often be an isolating time.
So each year, we are delighted to host a special Christmas party for families so that they can enjoy some special time together away from the hospital or family home, safe in the knowledge that they are alongside other families in a similar position who are also taking care to avoid busy, crowded spaces.
This year, following feedback from families in the Children’s Cancer Unit, we held two parties- one in Belfast and one in Derry/Londonderry- so that families in the North West didn’t have too far to travel. We kicked off the festivities in the MAC Theatre in Belfast on Saturday 6th December where families enjoyed some festive arts and crafts, a visit from Santa and lots of fun, followed by a tasty lunch and a special performance of Jack Frost. Everyone had a great day and it was lovely to meet some new families who were attending for the first time. A special word of thanks to our volunteers who helped with set up, arts and crafts activities and bringing families in for their visit to Santa.
Next, it was time to go North West. The children and their families enjoyed a special Christmas day out to the Millennium Forum in Derry where they were welcomed for a VIP Experience in the Speakeasy before watching a fantastic performance of Beauty and the Beast. Princess Elsa was on hand to welcome the children and sprinkle some special magic as the families enjoyed some festive treats and fun ahead of the panto.
For those families who are a little bit further down the line on their journey, our friends at The Grand Opera House Belfast kindly donated tickets for the dress rehearsal of this year’s pantomime, Pinocchio. We were delighted to share these with a group of families who enjoyed a very special night out at the theatre.
Events like these are so special and both parents and children commented on how great it was to be able to spend time together away from the hospital and to socialise with other families who are facing similar circumstances to themselves.
Here are some of our favourite photos from the events and you can find more on our social media.
