Childrens Holiday Foundation returns from Florida trip

The Childrens Holiday Foundation North Devon (CHFND) have just returned from Florida after giving another very special group of youngsters a two week holiday of a life time.

The local charity founded by Dr Robin Buckland has provided these holidays since 1993 for children who have suffered with life threatening illness or major disability.

The CHFND takes groups of eight children along with eight voluntary adult helpers with the aim of giving them the best two weeks of their lives.

The group visited three Disney parks, Universal studios, Busch Gardens, Sea World and Gatorland. The highlight for all of them was the very special day spent at Discovery Cove where they got the chance to swim and interact with the dolphins.

They all really enjoyed the newer rollercoasters which seem faster and higher than ever! It takes a great deal of courage to go on some of these but they all got a sense of achievement when they did them.

They also enjoyed the rest days by the pool, the shopping, and trying some of the American restaurants. The weather was very good with lots of hot Florida sunshine.

This group of children have formed several lasting friendships and the majority of the group have already met up to go Barnstaple Fair.

All the children said that they had had the best time ever and that it was an amazing experience. Several of the children said that the holiday had boosted their confidence and allowed them to feel more independent.

Maizy-Jo said: “I feel that it's such a special thing to do for us kids. We have all been through so much and just needed some time away. It's given me confidence, courage and has helped a lot with my anxiety and I now feel braver. Swimming with the dolphins was magical and I have made lots of memories of a lifetime. Thank you so much for this holiday and I will forever be grateful.”

Dr Buckland added: “All of the children have benefitted in many ways, not least the memory of a holiday of a lifetime. They have grown in confidence and become more independent which should help them all in the future. We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us with fundraising in the past and I am especially grateful to my brilliant helpers who make these holidays so special for the children. We are now planning the next holiday for eight more North Devon children in April 2025.”

The charity has now taken 216 children from North Devon to Florida across 27 holidays since 1993.

Children selected for the Florida trips are living with one or more illnesses and disabilities.

Many of them will have spent a great deal of time in and out of hospital undergoing medical or surgical treatment and often they have had to travel long distances to specialist units.

Meeting with other children with similar illness or disability often helps them to come to terms with their own problems and gives them new confidence to cope with their conditions, as well as helping to boost their independence.

If anyone would like to see pictures of the latest trip please follow The Children’s Holiday Foundation on Instagram at childrens_holiday_foundation

For more information please check our website at www.chfnd.org.uk and if anyone would like to support us there is a just giving page!