Brave Natalia heads out to meet Santa
WHEN You Wish Upon A Star has gifted a girl who suffers from a life-threatening illness a dream trip to Lapland to meet Santa Claus.
Eight-year-old Natalia Trendewicz, from Reddish, was among the 32 brave children who flew to Lapland from East Midlands Airport to make exciting new memories with their loved ones.
The charity spent £90,000 to charter a private flight, using generous donations that had been collected throughout the year.
The trip included husky sleigh rides, reindeer rides and sledging, getting the festive season into full swing and giving children a break from the usual schedule of hospital appointments at home.
Speaking on the plane, her mum Joanna said as a family they love travelling so they are all really happy we get to experience the trip together with Natalia, who is battling Wilms’ tumour.
She said: “After 12 months of chemotherapy and eight weeks of radiotherapy, it’s important that Natalia enjoys herself and has fun. I know she’s really looking forward to visiting Santa and riding the husky sleigh rides, she loves dogs so that will be a real treat. The charity has been amazing, and we feel really lucky to have been invited to join them on the trip.”
After landing in Lapland, the children were taken to a magical forest to explore their snow-covered surroundings and enjoy a firework display with guardians and family members.
Emmerdale stars Ash Palmisciano, Jonny McPherson and Natalie Robb also joined the group for the festivities.
Karen Martt, general manager at WYWUAS, said: “We always look forward to our annual Lapland visit - it’s such a special Christmas present to give to those families that need it the most.”
Following a hot dinner and a chance to warm up, the guests were treated to a meeting with Santa Claus, where each child got the chance to tell him what they wanted for Christmas and receive an early present.
To take part in the charity’s campaigns, please visit www.whenyouwishuponastar.org.uk or contact WYWUAS at fundraising@whenyouwish.org.uk or by calling 0115 9761720.