We know that everyone in a family is deeply affected by the illness of a child or sibling. Which is why Spread a Smile organises outings, events and activities that aim to support young patients, their parents, carers and siblings and bring moments of respite, joyful experiences and enduring memories at the most challenging of times.
The last few months have been packed full of some wonderful Spread a Smile family outings and events, from West End theatre trips to cooking lessons and boat trips. Read on to find out more.
Frozen, the Musical
“Absolutely no words to say how grateful we are for this afternoon – an incredible show! All thanks to you and your ever so fab team.” Parent
We’re so happy to know that our theatre trips really make a difference to those we support. They are a chance for our families to see shows they might not be able to afford and sit back and escape into the wonder of theatre.
Last month we took 14 families to see Frozen – The Musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London – and what a day it was! Our pre-show party was packed full of yummy treats, face-painting, glitter tattoos, entertainment and singing from Fairy Betty, Fairy Jude and Colette and magic from our Magicians Sacha and Paul. Then none other than Elsa and Anna came to say hello to our special guests – helping to create some incredible memories for everyone involved.
Brigit’s Bakery Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
It was a pleasure to welcome 14 of the families we support on board the double-decker bus for a Paddington-themed afternoon tea featuring ‘the best marmalade sandwich ever’! Guests enjoyed entertainment from Spread a Smile’s Mr Magic and entertainer Ellie whilst driving around London and taking in some of its famous landmarks. One guest said,
“You don’t know how much these events mean to us. They really help us through the hard times.”
Underground Cookery School
Since October 2022, we’ve been running special cookery days at Underground Cookery School in partnership with Teens Unite Fighting Cancer. Together we welcome young people affected by serious illness to learn how to cook a delicious 2-course meal before sitting down together to enjoy the meal they have prepared.
They are fun filled days which provide a relaxed opportunity for the young people to learn new skills
and a chance to connect and share their experiences in a safe environment whilst simply being a teenager amongst other teenagers.
“I wanted to thank you again. In addition to the cooking itself, we got a lot out of the day in terms of being able to speak with other parents and kids that have been through the same treatment. Thank you!”
“Thank you so much – we had such a wonderful day and really enjoyed ourselves. We loved having the opportunity to learn some amazing skills from the team at Underground Cookery School – to meet new friends and forget about illness for a short while. It means so much.”
We’re so grateful to everyone who makes these days possible, including theatre staff, cast and crew, Brigit’s Bakery, Lola’s Cupckares, NuNosh, Underground Cookery School and all of our volunteers who support us at the events. Team work definitely makes the dream work.
Please help ensure we can continue to provide support our families with special moments like these by making a donation. Thank you.
