Key 103’s Cash for Kids Mission Christmas gives families a special surprise

Families enjoyed an early Christmas treat courtesy of a Virtual Reality experience at Francis House.

The cinema room was decked out with festive goodies as part of Key 103’s Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal, which asks people to buy an extra present to give to disabled and disadvantaged children who can miss out at Christmas.

The station’s breakfast show was broadcast live from the lounge, and hosts Gemma, Matt and Mike met some of the children and their families who come for respite.

Among them Tehyah Solan-Clarke who has a rare genetic condition – Generalised Arterial Calcification of Infancy (GACI) – was at school when she suffered a stroke aged three and a half.

Now aged 7, her father Aaron describes her as a ‘warrior’.

The family from Saddleworth, including Tehyah’s older sister Aaliyah, brother Dantay and mum Sam, all took part in the surprise experience.

“The kids loved meeting Santa and Aaliyah was thrilled to be interviewed on the radio. We want to make as many memories with Tehyah good ones.” said Aaron.

Wearing Virtual Reality headsets the children were handed a virtual present by Father Christmas. A video crew captured the magical moment as they discovered a real gift was placed on their laps.

“It’s been amazing to have memories like this all together. At Francis House we can spend time as a family. It is so nice that people are thinking of other families at this time of year,”

Francis House supports over 460 families from across Greater Manchester.

David Ireland, chief executive of Francis House explained: “When there is a poorly child in the family the brothers and sisters often miss out on things. At Francis House we care for the whole family. Today has been a really great experience for these families and we are really grateful to Gemma, Matt and Mike and all the Key 103 Cash for Kids team for bringing this wonderful experience to Francis House. On behalf of the families we want to thank everyone who has so generously donated toys.”

Gemma Matt and Mike, the Key 103 Breakfast team said: “There’s no better feeling that seeing a child opening a present from Father Christmas. At Francis House we saw the most deserving children given a once in a lifetime experience. The look of wonder on their faces is something that will stay with all of us for a very long time. We’d like to thank all the brilliant people at Francis House for opening their doors to us and reminding us why we need to come together as a City to help these wonderful families.”

 

A video of the experience can be viewed here Planet Radio Key 103 charity news