Candlelighters is committed to making a significant difference in the lives of children with cancer through both direct support and research funding.
Candlelighters, a dedicated charity supporting children with cancer, recently held their annual Family Fun Day at Sherburn Aero Club in Yorkshire. The event, which took place at the picturesque Sherburn-in-Elmet Airfield, provided a day of joy and respite for children diagnosed with cancer and their families. This year’s Family Fun Day, held at the end of July, was filled with a diverse array of activities designed to create lasting memories and offer a much-needed escape from the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
A Day of Excitement and Joy
The Family Fun Day offered a wide range of engaging activities, ensuring that every child and family member had an enjoyable experience. Highlights included thrilling flights in light aircraft, an opportunity to explore the inside of a fire engine, and exhilarating rides around the airfield in fast cars. The day was further enriched by a lively disco, face-painting sessions, and a raffle featuring an array of exciting prizes.
Lori Reed, a community support worker for Candlelighters and a key organizer of the event, highlighted the significance of the Family Fun Day. “This event is a cherished part of the Candlelighters calendar. It provides a wonderful opportunity for families to come together in a relaxed environment, free from the usual pressures and stresses,” Reed commented. Watching families come together to create joyful memories and spend quality time in an environment where they feel both supported and understood truly encapsulates the spirit of this day. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers who helped make the day a success — their dedication ensured everything ran smoothly and contributed significantly to the day’s success.”
Community Support and Long-standing Partnerships
The Family Fun Day was made possible thanks to the support of the Sherburn Aero Club, based at Sherburn-in-Elmet Airfield in North Yorkshire. Known for its pilot training programs, flying experiences, and vibrant flying club, the Sherburn Aero Club has been a steadfast supporter of Candlelighters for over 15 years. Their commitment to organizing the Family Fun Day ensures that all participating children and their families have the chance to engage in a variety of enjoyable activities.
One parent who attended the event shared their gratitude, saying, “There’s nothing quite like seeing so many oncology families come together, sharing smiles and creating cherished memories. The day was filled with love, laughter, and joy. A sincere thank you to all who participated in making this event so memorable and special.
Candlelighters’ Ongoing Commitment
Candlelighters, a Yorkshire-based charity, has been a beacon of support for children diagnosed with cancer and their families for nearly 50 years. Beyond organizing events like the Family Fun Day, Candlelighters provides a range of essential services, including emotional and practical support at their Family Support Centre in Leeds, as well as crucial funding for research into children’s cancer.
The charity’s work extends to supporting oncology wards at Leeds Children’s Hospital and contributing to vital research aimed at improving outcomes and the quality of life for children with cancer. With approximately 150 children diagnosed with cancer in Yorkshire each year, and over 2,000 across the UK, Candlelighters is dedicated to offering comprehensive support and enhancing the lives of these young patients and their families.
