Henry’s Unforgettable Birthday Adventure at Alton Towers Resort

For Henry, a trip to Alton Towers wasn’t just a birthday treat - it was a rare chance to feel like a typical 15-year-old again. Despite his condition, Henry immersed himself in a day full of excitement, joy, and the magic of childhood. His enthusiasm and bravery on the rides - especially on The Smiler, which he rode three times - served as a powerful reminder of his strength and resilience. For his family, witnessing these moments was deeply moving. It reminded them that, even amidst overwhelming challenges, there is always room for joy, adventure, and treasured family memories.

The impact of this visit went far beyond the fun of the theme park. While caring for Henry, Lana, his mother, was also diagnosed with breast cancer. Balancing her own battle with illness while caring for Henry had been emotionally and physically draining for the family. This magical experience provided them with a rare opportunity to escape the stresses of hospital visits and simply focus on being together. For Lana, it was a much-needed respite - a chance to watch her children laugh and embrace life to the fullest, despite the challenges they faced.

The family - Lana, Marc, Henry, and his sister Amber - enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime getaway, starting with a stay in a vibrant Coca-Cola-themed room at the Alton Towers Hotel. The fun began with a round of Extraordinary Golf, where Henry amazed everyone by scoring a hole-in-one - cheered on by his proud family. It was a moment of pure celebration, something they hadn’t experienced in a long time.

The main event followed: a full day at the theme park, where Henry’s excitement was palpable. The Smiler, with its record-breaking 14 loops and dizzying speed, quickly became his favorite ride. He rode it not once, but three times, laughing and grinning with pure joy. His determination to tackle the thrill rides reminded everyone around him of his incredible strength.

Amber, following her big brother’s lead, found her own favorite: THI3TEEN. The unexpected 16-foot drop into complete darkness had her giggling with delight, eager to get back in line for more. Meanwhile, Lana found a peaceful moment on the Congo River Rapids, a gentle, splashing ride that offered a brief pause in an otherwise action-packed day.

This visit couldn’t have come at a more crucial time. Amid Henry’s medical journey, Lana was also fighting her own battle with breast cancer. "This wasn’t just a day out - it was a break from hospital appointments, a pause from the weight of everything, and a chance to be a family again,” she shared.

Organized as a surprise birthday celebration, this experience was made possible by the dedicated team at Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice. “Henry has good days and bad days,” a hospice representative explained. “We don’t know how long he’ll have the mobility to enjoy rides like these. But on this day, he had joy, excitement, and a reason to smile.”

Although Henry is nonverbal, his expressions spoke volumes. His wide smiles and infectious laughter as he zoomed around the park conveyed everything words could not. For one extraordinary day, he wasn’t defined by his diagnosis - he was simply a kid, living in the moment and having the time of his life.

“Thank you, Merlin’s Magic Wand, for making Henry’s wish come true,” said Lana. “We’ll cherish these memories forever.”