A family receiving care and support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) have reflected with gratitude after being given the opportunity to create magic memories at Center Parcs.
Parents Bryn and Angela Thomas, along with 17-year-old son Oliver, were among those to apply for the chance to test one of four new accessible lodges at Elveden Forest.
Center Parcs gifted the opportunity to families and was keen to receive feedback before making the accommodation available to the public.
Bryn, Angela and Oliver were among the lucky ones and said they “wouldn’t change a thing”.
“We were so excited when we found out about this amazing opportunity, as we go there every year,” said Angela.
“It’s our only holiday, and we’ve seen these lodges being built.
“It felt twice the size of a regular one, making it easy to move around and push Oliver’s wheelchair.
“The ceiling hoist track was invaluable, as opposed to a mobile one, and made the world of difference.
“It was also lovely that all areas were so accessible, and there were no steps or tricky doorways.
“Everything was so well thought out, and we were able to easily push Oliver outside, through the patio doors.
“In terms of the lodge, we wouldn’t change a thing, and it was also very helpful to receive a tick list of additional equipment, should we need it, prior to our visit.
“For instance, we were able to request a shower bed, like the ones we use during our hydro sessions, and it was there waiting for us when we arrived.”
Families were able to apply for the chance to stay at Elveden Forest, although they had to meet certain criteria, including being wheeled mobility users. The lucky families were chosen after a random draw.
Angela said as well as enjoying spending time in their beautiful lodge, they also loved being at one with nature in the forest.
“Oliver absolutely loves the trees and being outside,” said Angela, who lives in the North Essex village of Wix.
“At 9am, we’d head out for a long walk and make our way around the entire village. Everything was very user and wheelchair-friendly.
“Despite all those cars in the car park, it never feels overcrowded. Just the opposite, in fact.
“Everything’s very peaceful and tranquil, and Oliver loves seeing the trees and ducks. We enjoy the sights and sounds.”
Oliver has Trisomy 11Q, a rare chromosomal anomaly syndrome. It leads to various complications, including epilepsy (apnea) and chronic lung disease.
He needs a feeding tube and was three when he started receiving care from EACH at The Treehouse.
“We’ve built up such a positive relationship with everyone at the hospice,” said Angela.
“Everyone we’ve ever met there has been nothing but helpful and supportive.
“Oliver has surpassed all expectations, and when we were first put in touch, it was with a view to receiving end of life care.
“That was 14 years ago, as Oliver’s now 17. Everyone loves him and not just because of his blond hair, blue eyes and cheeky smile. He’s a lovely little boy who’s done well and showed such resilience, to come as far as he has.
“In the years since, he’s enjoyed lots of hydrotherapy and music therapy sessions, as well as many stay-and-play days, where we drop him off at 10am and pick him up again at 4pm.
“As a family, we go to all functions, including Treefest and Winter Wonderland, and the hospice has become a big and important part of our lives. We’re grateful for so many amazing opportunities to create special memories.”
Center Parcs is partnered with EACH through its corporate charity partnership with Together for Short Lives. The team at Elveden Forest raise funds for both causes and participate in volunteering opportunities at EACH.
