Ballymena family experience truly Titanic Christmas

Belfast Lord Mayor Nichola Mallon pictured with the Hendron family from Ballymena at Titanic Belfast's Magical Christmas Experience on Friday night (November 21). The night was organised for families such as the Hendrons, who have received support from local charity Cancer Fund for Children. Pictured with Ms Mallon from left to right are Peter Hendron, Isabella Hendron, the Titanic Belfast Christmas fairy, Matilda Hendron and Emily Hendron.

The Hendron family were one of the families who got a sneak peek at the event and enjoyed games and story-telling before meeting Scrooge and Father Christmas in his Old Curiosity Shop.

The family received support from the charity after their little girl Matilda (4) was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow disorder.

Matilda’s mum Emily said: “When Matilda was diagnosed it was such a difficult time for us. It was particularly hard on my other daughter Isabella.

“The illness really does impact everyone. Cancer Fund for Children’s specialist Lynn was fantastic with Isabella. She chatted and did activities with her. We started to see an improvement in her, she was less anxious.

“ Events like this are fantastic. It gives us the chance to spend time together as a family.

“This year is extra special because last year Matilda was too ill to attend the charity’s Christmas party.”

Matilda’s dad, peter, added: “Events like this make the bad times seem very far away.”