Isla & Ollie's Enhanced Magical Day Out at Alton Towers Resort

In May last year, Young Lives vs Cancer shared heartbreaking news with us. At just 22 years old, Jak had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. For his younger siblings, Isla and Olly, and their parents, time suddenly became the most precious thing they had.

Like many families facing serious illness, they held onto the hope of creating joyful memories together. One of their wishes was a day at Alton Towers Resort, somewhere Isla and Olly could laugh, play, and feel like kids again, alongside their big brother Jak.

Sadly, Jak’s health declined rapidly. He passed away in July, before the family were able to make that visit.

In the weeks following Jak’s funeral, the family felt ready to return to that wish. This time, their visit to Alton Towers was made in loving memory of Jak, a chance to honour him while spending meaningful time together.

From the moment they arrived, the day brought moments of warmth and connection. Isla was given the incredible honour of leading the countdown to open the park, welcoming guests as the very first visitors of the day. It was a moment filled with pride, excitement, and emotion.

The family were treated to a VIP experience that allowed them to be present with one another, without worry or rush. They also enjoyed a private tour of Sharkbait Reef at SEA LIFE, discovering the underwater world together and sharing quiet moments of wonder.

For families like Jak’s, experiences like these are more than days out. They are chances to pause the weight of grief, to reconnect, and to create memories that carry love rather than loss.

Even in the darkest moments, there can still be laughter. Still wonder. Still magic.

And Jak’s memory lives on in every smile shared that day.