When Arthur received his invitation to our 2024 trip to Florida, it was a magical and nostalgic moment for him and his family, as Arthur’s uncle, Sean, had received the same invitation 25 years ago!
At the time, Arthur was struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. Reflecting on his challenges, he shared, “I was very shy about myself – my disability, my legs, my wheelchair – and I worried about my talking.”
Both Arthur and his mum, Nicholl, felt a mix of nerves and excitement about the holiday. Nicholl shared, “My brother, Sean, gave us sound, comforting advice about how incredible this trip would be. He said it would open doors for Arthur’s future and boost his confidence. Sean told me, ‘Honestly, it’s the best thing you will ever do for Arthur – let him go and have fun.’”
Arthur went on to have a fantastic time in Florida as part of our Simpsons Group; he experienced the thrill of rollercoasters for the first time, kissed a dolphin and – most importantly – tried doughnuts with jam in the middle! He said: “I made lots of new friends, they are all awesome and I love them!”
When asked if he felt different after the trip, Arthur told us: “I felt happy with myself and proud of me. It was all amazing and the best experience ever. I like trying new things now, I’m not afraid and I like joining in.”
Simpsons Group Leader, Tricia, shared: “Arthur was shy, quiet and understandably nervous about how his additional needs would be understood and met on the trip. Witnessing Arthur flourish on Dreamflight was truly wonderful. The dedicated guides gained Arthur’s trust to care for him, encourage and support him to conquer fears, achieve something every day and create special memories.”
Mum, Nicholl, added: “Seeing him engage now and have the self-confidence, not only emotionally but physically – in feeding himself and trying to do more things independently – is overwhelming. You’ve uplifted and changed my child in such a positive way that’s rippled into everyone he knows. He’s proud of himself and most of all, he now loves himself.”
We are all so proud of you too, Arthur!