Brave Alexander's dream trip joy

A Shropshire youngster recovering from a life-threatening illness has had his dream holiday turned into reality.

Life was turned upside down for four-year-old Alexander Jacques, from Ellesmere, last year when he was diagnosed with Wilm's tumour, a cancer of the kidney.

The news meant that plans for a family holiday had to be shelved in order that life-saving treatment could begin.

But all of that was forgotten by Alexander and his big brother, Sebastian, seven, when the Starlight Children's Foundation sent the Jacques family to Disneyland Paris.

Alexander spent several months being treated at Birmingham Children's Hospital, including an operation to remove his left kidney.

This kept the Jacques family apart for long periods of time, including last Christmas.

But after a traumatic year, things are now looking up with Alexander on the road to recovery, and the recent trip to Disneyland providing a much-needed break.

Alexander's father, Nick Jaques said: "Starlight have looked after our family by giving us a magical holiday which will not be forgotten.

"After everything the boys have been through, it was fantastic to see them having so much fun.

"Since Alex was diagnosed we have been unable to go on holiday, so this trip was special to us as it gave us worry-free time together as a family again."

Alexander is now well on the way to recovery. He completed his treatment in May and now attends the nursery at Ellesmere Primary School.

Starlight Children's Foundation is a charity which grants a once-in-a-lifetime wishes to seriously and terminally-ill children.

There are 17 children in Shropshire waiting for their wishes to be granted and the charity is always looking for donations to help make those dreams come true.

Starlight also creates entertainment in every hospital and hospice throughout the UK.

To make a donation, visit to www.starlight.org.uk or call (0207) 2622881.

By Andy Rogers