Over 300 adults and children from across the province attended the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children’s annual Christmas party on Saturday 10^th December at the Culloden Estate and Spa in Belfast. The event was organised as part of Childhood  Cancer Awareness month, which takes place in December.

In keeping with tradition, an array of special guests joined in the fun and festivities including the infamous May McFettridge and the cast from this year’s Grand Opera House pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk, Santa Claus, a magician, balloon makers and a DJ playing Christmas tunes.

A highlight in their Christmas calendar, the party was the first time for many of these families to come together as a unit following a difficult year of treatment and hospital appointments.   It was also a great opportunity to catch up with other families and NICFC staff in a fun and relaxed setting.

Craigavon mother Mandy Clenaghan’s fourteen- year old daughter Rebekah is living with cancer and she tells us how the local charity supports her family:

“We were introduced to Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children when Rebekah was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in October 2010. This is when we met Angela, one of the charity’s Youth Worker’s. Chatting with Angela both at home and in the hospital has been a fantastic form of support for Rebekah.  

 Instead of talking continuously about clinics and infection, Rebekah can discuss something other than cancer, she can be herself again. Rebekah has been on days out with the charity and attended a residential at Narnia in Newcastle. By mixing with other young people going through a similar experience, I can see her spirits have been lifted and she has really started to smile again!”

Each child received a gift from Santa which was donated by Dr Perry Davis and his clients via his annual Toy Drive at Glengormley Chiropractic.

Click here to see a selection of photographs from the party!

NICFC would also like to extend special thanks to the cast of the Grand Opera House, Hendersons Group, Courtney and Nelson, Belfast Zoo, Party Press, T7 Photography and The Culloden Hotel and Spa for their support of the event.

Updated on: 16th December, 2011