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The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual Lapland trip on December 19, 2023. In collaboration with TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park, and Wild Nordic in Rovaniemi, Finland, the charity is set to bring joy and Christmas magic to 85 children facing terminal illness and life-limiting conditions.
This cherished tradition, established by the charity in 2008, will transport the children to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle in Lapland, Finland. The day will feature enchanting activities, including reindeer and husky dog rides, mini skidoo adventures, a snowmobile safari, magic sleigh rides, and a special meeting with Santa Claus.
Families eagerly awaiting this magical experience include the Beatties from Dundonald and Karen Toal and daughter Rionach Johnston from North Belfast. Carlee Beattie, mother of nine-year-old Carter, expressed her gratitude, saying, "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, shared her family's excitement, stating, "This is a dream come true for us. Rionach is so excited, telling all family and friends. We cannot wait."
Supporting the annual trip, Charlotte Brenner, Marketing Manager at TUI Ireland, said, "We are thrilled to lend our support to the charity and bring the enchantment of Lapland to the children this year. Amid the joyous holiday celebrations for many families, it's crucial to remember that some are grappling with illness or life-limiting conditions. Being able to provide a touch of magic is a true honor for us, recognising the importance of creating special moments for those facing unique challenges during the festive season."
Jean Foster, General Manager, Swissport, Belfast, expressed their delight in supporting the young travelers, their families, and health staff on the ground at the airport, ensuring a streamlined departure and arrival. Deborah Harris, PR & Marketing Manager at Belfast International Airport, emphasized the airport's dedication to creating a seamless and joyous journey, eagerly awaiting the return of these remarkable children and their families.
Colin Barkley, Chair of NI Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust, expressed gratitude to the organisations making 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 traveling for their families."
Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of supporters, including TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park, and Wild Nordic in Rovaniemi, Barkley extended thanks to fundraisers and corporate partners, emphasizing their role in making this annual journey seamless.
The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland Trust, with a history of bringing joy to over 1,500 children, remains committed to providing this magical experience, creating lasting memories for children facing challenging circumstances.
