Abbots Langley’s youngest celebrity was treated to a trip of a lifetime just before Christmas after a visit to Disney World. Five-year-old Sian Moorcroft, of Kindersley Way, joined around 40 other youngsters and their families in making the trip to Florida with parents Emma and Craig through the charity Caudwell Children. The charity organise and fund the ‘Destination Dreams’ trip, which is for youngsters fighting life threatening illnesses.
As many My Abbots Newsreaders will know by now, Sian suffers from Intermediate (Type II) Spinal Muscular Atrophy and has had numerous operations during her young life. Sian’s condition means that she has very limited mobility and requires a wheelchair. She undergoes frequent stays in hospital with respiratory problems and has endured five operations in the past two years. Sian made the headlines in 2007 after becoming the youngest child in the UK with SMA Type 2 to have growth rods fitted to help her condition. During the week long holiday families enjoyed days out at Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. They spent time exploring the parks, soaking up the many magical sights and sounds. While at SeaWorld they also got the opportunity to get up close and personal with Orca Whales, Dolphins and Polar Bears. The youngsters met Universal Characters including Scooby Doo, Woody Woodpecker and Curious George, as well as Mickey Mouse and friends from Disney during their stay. They were also treated to horse riding sessions, horse and carriage rides and a “Winter Wonderland Party” complete with an early visit from Santa! While Sian had an amazing trip, it looked at one stage she they might not be able to make it. Mum Emma told My Abbots News: “The trip was scary because Sian had caught a bug just before we had to go. Fortunately, Virgin Airlines were so good and Sian slowly got better.” Along with the family Sian took ‘Barnaby’, her school mascot that has been with her class from nursery attending various holidays that classmates have been on. It is the first time Sian has been able to take Barnaby on a trip of her own and get lots of pictures to take back to the class. Emma added, “I’m quite a strong person but the trip to Florida was very emotional. Sian had an amazing time and it is something she will never forget – a big thank you must go to Caudwell Children.” To date Caudwell Children has donated over £8 million to thousands of children with over 160 medical conditions. Each family funded for the trip costs around £6000. It is the third time the Charity have stepped in to help Sian with vital equipment including a Permobil Koala Wheelchair to help with Sian’s independence and mobility as well as a specialist bath that helps Sian bathe in a safe environment. Anyone in the area in need of a donation, wanting more information about the Charity or wishes to support Destination Dreams is urged to contact the team on 0845 300 1348.
Abbots Langley’s youngest celebrity was treated to a trip of a lifetime just before Christmas after a visit to Disney World. Five-year-old Sian Moorcroft, of Kindersley Way, joined around 40 other youngsters and their families in making the trip to Florida with parents Emma and Craig through the charity Caudwell Children. The charity organise and fund the ‘Destination Dreams’ trip, which is for youngsters fighting life threatening illnesses.