Cian’s ‘magical day’ as he meets Santa on charity trip to Lapland

Cian’s ‘magical day’ as he meets Santa on charity trip to Lapland

15 January 2025

A BRAVE Castlewellan boy enjoyed a trip of a lifetime when he visited Santa Claus before Christmas.

Ten year-old Cain McEvoy and his mum, Lauren. joined 80 other families from Northern Ireland as they jetted off on the unforgettable journey to Lapland.

The much anticipated trip was organised by the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust (NICLT).

It marked the charity’s 16th year of creating magical moments for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

The charity provides once in a lifetime experiences that bring joy, respite, and cherished memories to children and their families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

The magic began for the travellers the moment they stepped through the doors of Belfast International Airport.

They were greeted by elves and filled with Christmas cheer and excitement thanks to the Choir Studio from Newry, who were delighted to perform on the day.

Lauren said: “Cain had such a magical day from start to finish. As well as meeting Santa, he loved the reindeers and the snowmobile ride, but the highlight for him was definitely the huskies.” 

She expresses her gratitude to the charity and to every single volunteer and member of staff they encountered throughout their entire journey. 

“You could tell everyone wanted to make sure our day was as magical and stress free as possible, from the airport staff and the choir, to the doctors and nurses who were travelling with us and making the trip possible.” 

Lauren said travelling can be challenging due to Cain’s condition, explaining that simple things such as sourcing travel insurance, passing through airport security and ensuring they are always close to a hospital can be extremely stressful. 

“Being able to just completely relax and enjoy the experience is something we will always be grateful for.”

Offering a heartfelt thanks to all involved, Colin Barkley, Chair of NI Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust said: “There is no greater Christmas gift than bringing joy to children living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

“This trip allows families to escape their daily challenges, offering a day of magic, support, and unforgettable memories.”

He continued: “Our deepest thanks go to TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park, Wild Nordic, the Choir Studio from Newry and the countless volunteers and supporters who make this trip possible. Without their dedication, none of this would be achievable.

“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful fundraisers and corporate partners including Wineflair, The Bushmills Inn, C-Tec (NI), Glens of Antrim Potatoes, CosyRoof, Bells of Crossgar, Energystore and Mango, whose generosity ensures this magical journey continues to bring light and joy to these remarkable children and their families.”

Charlotte Brenner, Marketing Manager at TUI, one of the companies enabling the annual trip, said: “It is an enormous privilege to welcome on board the children, families, medical teams and support staff heading off on this exciting adventure to Lapland.

“We were delighted to lend our support once again and help to make this a joyful experience that will create wonderful lasting memories.”

Deborah Harris, PR and Marketing Manager at Belfast International Airport, said: “The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland Trust flight is always very special and this year was no exception.

“We were delighted to welcome all of the children, their families and the fantastic staff to Belfast International Airport and we are sure they had an experience to remember.

“It is very important for us to be part of this magical event – it really brings home the meaning of Christmas.”