 Below are stories of some of our SMILES DONE. Click here to view all photos
Harvey was nominated at the end of last year along with his brother Hugo. Their younger brother Charlie was 6 when he died in September after being ill for much of his short life. Both brothers helped look after Charlie during his illness and now miss him loads.
Harvey is a very musical young man - he is on a music scholarship at Rossall school and sings in a choir so his dream - he told us - was to play the organ in a cathedral! WOW! How fantastic is that we thought and immediately contacted Liverpool Cathedral. Liverpool Cathedral were wonderful and very keen to help Harvey have his smile take place there.
On the morning of the smile, Harvey and his mum, Julie were on Radio Lancashire talking about how they felt and how excited Harvey was. Friends and family were also excited about the day so they had organised a coach to take them to Liverpooll first thing after the radio interview.
The party arrived at the Cathedral in time for Evensong when Harvey, his friend Joe and dad went up to the 'flight deck' to watch Ian Tracey play for the service. After this Harvey came down and took his seat at the organ in the main body of the Cathedral. Despite his size Harvey tackled the three key boards and seemingly, dozens of pedals with confidence and ease. He played for around half an hour with applause from his audience and to the amazement of the many tourists who were passing.
This is what Harvey says about the day;
" What can I say but Thank you! to everyone at Miles of Smiles for my special day. I really enjoyed listening to and sitting next to Professor Ian Tracey for Evensong. It was a great and wonderful experience, also being able to play the organ was really exciting especially for the first time on the big organ at Liverpool Cathedral - my first organ recital at a Cathedral!. I will always remember this wonderful day. Thank You" by Harvey
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Sisters Hayley and Alexandra have been through a really tough time over the past few months. Mum had been ill for quite a while with a rare skin condition and heart problems and was taken into Hope Hospital in Salford. The girls lived near Kirkham so its quite a distance to travel so visits to see mum were not so often. Alex at 14 went to live with dad hopefully till mum got better and came home but mum died quite suddenly. So Alex has to get used to a whole new life. Losing your mum at 14 is not good at any time of the year but three weeks before Christmas - its unbearable.
Elder sister Hayley had a 'smile' before Christmas when she went shopping to the Trafford Centre and it seems Alex liked the idea so along with friends and family Alex spent the day at the Trafford Centre spending to her hearts content as long as her feet would allow!
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Charlotte is the youngest of four sisters. Two of her sisters have already had 'smiles' - Catherine went to see Blackburn Rovers play at Ewood and Emma had a makeover and a shopping trip. Now its Charlotte's turn. Eldest sister Kayleigh has severe learning difficulties and has had to move back in the family home after supported living in the community didn't work out. Emma has autism and is a very strong personality which can be difficult for Charlotte. Catherine has gone to university and life revolves around Kayleigh's needs and Emma being Emma! Charlotte just really needs a 'smile'.
When we met her she hadn't really decided what she would like to do but after a big chat she came up with - some friends and her going in a limo to for a meal. A modest smile for a brilliant young lass
Of course we try to make things as special as possible so we started off by sending Charlotte a New Look voucher to buy a new outfit. On the day we sent her to be a pampered - hair, nails and make up - then back home to met up wih her friends and wait for the limo.
Seven very excited young ladies climbed into the limo and set off for Frankie and Benny's where they are and drank and giggled and generally had a brilliant time.
Matthew is 14 and his dad has severe and enduring mental health issues. Mum cares for dad which is a full time job and this - needless to say has an effect on Matthew and on the family life. Simple family things are not simple in their household.
Matthew said he loved detective tv programmes - specially Law and Order but he really needs a lap top to help with his school work. When dad is having a bad day it helps if Matthew can take himself off to his bedroom where there is some calm and so he can concentrate. We offered to try and get him to the set of Law and Order - tho that could prove to be impossible - but he has done the sensible thing and asked for a lap top.
Matthew is a really lovely lad and was really suited when we took it round to him. No doubt it'll keep him busy for the rest of the holiday
Brothers Ben and Saul have both been through the mill with domestic circumstances recently leaving them both in need of a smile. Not only that but they both look after mum as she has osteosporosis and struggles with lots of things round the house. They are her rocks. Mum says they have been through some tremendously dark and very sad days but when we went to visit we brought some massive sunshine into their lives.
Ben, 13 asked for a really fancy phone - Nokia lumina and Saul, 11 asked for a desk top computer to play games on.
No sooner said than done! A couple of really lovely boys with really lovely smiles which is what we are all about.
Dean looks after his mum who has had a really tough time recently. They are - mum says - 'a team'. Dean asked to go and watch Manchester United play at Old Trafford. How simple is that? Manchester United were truly brilliant - not only donating the tickets but sending Dean a letter signed by Alex Ferguson himself. WOW!
Dean was excited when the limo came to pick them up and mum was really touched. We gave Dean some spending money for the famous shop and sent them there nice and early to get the feel of the ground. They had a really fantastic time - not least as Utd won 4 - 0.
Afterwards mum texted us 'Thank you for a wonderful time on Saturday. Dean really really enjoyed it. It was brill. We felt like celebs in the limo. Thank you so much xxx'
You are welcome x
Sisters Hayley and Alexandra have been through a really tough time over the past few months. Mum had been ill for quite a while with a rare skin condition and heart problems and was taken into Hope Hospital in Salford. The girls live near Kirkham so its quite a distance to travel so visits to see mum were not often. Alex at 14 went to live with dad but Hayley, 17 stayed home and tried to manage on her own with the support of nan and grandad round the corner. It hasn't been easy for Hayley in many ways not least financially so when we met her and asked what she would like to do she jumped at the chance of a shopping trip to the Trafford Centre with her best friend.
Hayley and best friend Jessica were ready and waiting on a cold Sunday morning thinking we were just giving them a lift to the Trafford Centre. Hayley was amazed and really touched when her limo came. Both girls hurtled in and wen toff shopping in true VIP style. They shopped till they dropped - somehow managed not to spend everything we gave to Hayley and in Hayley's words - had an 'awesome' time.
Brothers Harvey,12 and Hugo,9 have been through a really rough time for quite a while. Their younger brother Charlie died in September after having been ill for a long time. They helped look after him when he was ill and now they both miss him and have got to get used to life without him. Both of these very handsome young men deserve a big smile. Hugo has asked if it would be possible to be a mascot for Manchester United - not the easiest of smiles to do but we like a challenge!
And somehow we managed it ! Hugo was a mascot at Old Trafford.
Mum, dad, Harvey and Hugo were very excited when we arrive to take them. Mascot Hugo took the limo in his stride having been in one before but mum was over the moon.
Hugo's story:
We went to the Manchester United Museum where Mum & Dad had champagne! Then went to the shop where I bought a football and a scarf. We then met Lisa who gave me a Man Utd kit showed me and my Dad where I would get changed. Then waited in the tunnel where I got the players signatures these were Rooney, Fletcher, Nani and more.... Then I led the team out with the Captain 'Vidic' and we did a guard of honour for Sir Alex Ferguson managing the club for 25 years. We had an official photo with Captains and referees. We then went to join my Mum & Brother Harvey on the front row to watch the match. The next day I was in most of the papers as 'Fergies' Guard of Honour'.
An incredible day for a special young man and his family - one they will never forget.
Dill was nominated by his dad, Graham. Graham's health is not good at all and he spends much time in hospital and respite. Earlier this year Dill gave up a four week holiday in Thailand in order to stay home and look after his dad whilst the rest of the family went. Dill helped with daily activities and had to do things like empty dad's commode. Graham fell out of bed in the middle of one night and he was stuck on the floor but Dill stayed with him and supported him till the emergency services came.
Dill is a star and certainly deserved a special day. He has asked if he can go go karting with his friends and for a family meal.
During the half term break, we took Dill and his two best friends to the go kart centre on Preston docks. All three hurtled round the track trying to beat each other with best times and number of laps and lots of screeching and the odd bump. It was fantastic they all declared. That evening, the three boys and all Dill's family piled into our special taxi and set off for a Chinese buffet. A perfect end to a wonderful day for a really lovely and deserving family. But a special thank you to Dill for being such a support to his dad.
Millie is almost five and was nominated by her mum, Kath. Kath is currently undergoing palliative treatment for cancer and knows that her time is short. She asked us if we could give Millie a special treat so that she has some precious memories of her mum which Millie can keep forever. Kath said that Millie has been such a brave little girl and provides her mum with love, support and attention.
What would every four your old girl love to be? A Princess.
On the afternoon of the ‘smile’ the only thing that that Millie knew was she had a surprise waiting as she had the afternoon off school and was dressed in her blue Princess outfit. But what?
The Miles of Smiles team arrived at St Catherine’s Hospice with a big pink sparkly box of goodies which Millie opened – surprisingly slowly – and unwrapped some of the gifts inside. Mum helped her put some make up on (the first gift) and put on some bracelets (the second gift). We told Millie we had a surprise waiting for her – she said she hoped it was elephants. And the Royal Party set off down the corridor to the reception area where Princess Millie’s public was waiting. Princess Millie smiled gracefully and was most patient while her subjects took many photographs but then she spotted the big surprise. A horse drawn Cinderella carriage waiting to take our Princess and her mum and dad out for a ride. Her public was temporarily forgotten as Princess Millie hurtled down the path to make sure that the carriage was especially for her. There was a crowd outside too and Princess Millie was given a round of applause as she made her (very fast) way to the carriage. It was fabulous.
Once mum, dad and the Princess were in the carriage Bart the horse slowly pulled out of the hospice grounds and made his way to the restaurant. As usual, people waved and cars tooted their horns when the saw the carriage ands its very special passengers.
Finally they all arrived at the restaurant where they were met by staff – as VIPS should be met - and shown to their specially reserved table. The Royal party was joined at this point by minor royals in the shape of grandmas and granddads and the whole team enjoyed a fabulous meal and Princess Millie unwrapped the rest of her goodies.
Princess Millie’s afternoon ended with the carriage ride back to the hospice. A special smile for a very special young lady and her family the memories will be very special and very precious for all of us.
Sadly Kath died just a week after Millie's smile. Dad, Karl said that Kath had ticked every box and that Millie's special day was the last one.
Zaneta is a lovely young lady who came from Poland three years ago with her mum and dad. Not only has she has had to get used to a new country and culture she has settled into a new school and learnt the language. Mum and dad both suffer from ill health and recently dad was diagnosed with cancer.
Zaneta gives a lot of not only practical support to her parents but also emotional and she attends endless hospital appointments when she has to act as interpreter. A lot to do for a 14 year old. All these responsibilities means she misses out on many things like trips out with the young carers but she still manages to do well at school.
Zaneta asked if she could have a Blackberry 8520.......... Curve......... with BBM. So us oldies at Miles of Smiles went on a crash course of what all that meant. The result was a very happy young lady with a lovely smile. And that's what its all about!!
Matthew and Emma were nominated by their mum. Sister Lauren was born with a very rare condition called Pyruvate Dehydrogenase complex Deficiency. The family were told she wouldn't live past her 4th birthday - but she is nearing her 9th. She has many complex needs and has 24 hour one to one care. Matthew and Emma are well versed in Lauren's equipment. They turn feed pumps off, fetch things and help wipe spit when needed. They include Lauren in their games by sitting in her room, moving her hands and talking to her. They are very quick to shout if she needs help. They also have younger brother William who is just over 1 to help mum look after.
Mum says what amazes her most is the lack of complaining they do - holidays abroad are completely out and simple family days out are difficult. If Lauren is having a 'good' day and they manage to go out it is a like a military operation organising everything.
Mum says there are always smiles in their house which is testament to what brilliant children they all are and how Matthew and Emma deserve a smile.
Matthew asked for a notebook so he can play Moshimonsters in peace without dad throwing him off the lap top and Emma wanted a trampoline but we had a bit of a job persuading dad to let her. But how could he not?
So soon as we got dad's approval we got to work. One afternoon whilst Emma and Matthew were at the cinema we put together the trampoline - not as easy as it says on the tin - but of course, we did it.
Both youngsters were lost for words when they got in but within minutes Matthew was smiling all over his face and Emma was bouncing away. Lovely jubbly.
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We have been busy recently with several 'smiles' but are not including them on the web site as non of the youngsters involved want any publicity. It's the youngster's choice and we respect it but don't think we are going through a quiet spell ............................ anything but!
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Margaret and Adam are sister and brother who live in an incredibly stressful environment. They live with mum and little sister Amelia having moved to Preston in 2008. Money is pretty short at home and both have a birthday in April - Margaret is 13 and Adam is 11 so originally they asked if they could have a birthday party. However, they changed their minds as you are allowed to when you are 11 and 13 and asked if they could have a lap top each. 'You can.' we said and we got Margaret a shiny red one and Adam a black one. Both youngsters were thrilled to bits when they saw them.
 Ginny, 12, is the youngest of 4 sisters. In June 2009 sister Katie was diagnosed with Acute Myloid Leukemia and the whole family's world was turned upside down. Katie went through a ton of treatment and when it was over the family hoped that life would be back to normal. But exactly one year to the day that Katie was diagnosed with this awful illness she relapsed and needed a bone marrow transplant. Ginny was her match. On September 16th Ginny happily gave her bone marrow to her sister - a traumatic experience for anyone but especially for a twelve year old. Ginny faced it with a smile on her face and was so brave we thought she deserved a 'smile'.
Ginny asked if she could go to Alton Towers and stay in the hotel there - the chocolate room was mentioned so we happily booked Ginny, Katie, mum and dad an overnight stay there just before Easter.
Rosie and Molly are sisters who were nominated by their nanna. Both sisters have a condition called Myotonic Dystrophy - Rosie also has learning difficulties and agenisis of the Corpus Colosom which to you and me means part of her brain is missing. Molly has ADHD. Mum, grandad, aunty and two cousins also have Myotonic Dystrophy so they have their fair share of problems.
Rosie and Molly are two lovely young ladies. Neither of them stop talking for long in fact, Molly never stops talking. The condition means their eyesight and speech are affected but it obviously doesn't get them down.
Molly loves to dress up and asked if she could be a Princess and go to Macdonalds in the horse drawn carriage.
It was a beautiful day when Prince Charming arrived at the house to see if the pink sparkly shoes fitted - which naturally they did so Princess Molly could go to the ball at Macdonalds. Princess Molly, sister Rosie and nanna all travelled in the carriage waving to the public lining the streets.
Family & friends were waiting for the Royal party at Macdonalds and all were shown to the VIP area. It was nanna's first experience of Macdonalds and she is now a convert. After a lively meal the party all left to go back home. Molly claiming it had been ' the best day of my lfe'.
Sister Rosie decided that she would like to go and see a musical that she could sing along with. She chose Mamma Mia and practised the songs almost every day.
Nanna and grandad were invited along to accompany Rosie and everyone was very excited - specially Nanna - when they saw the Miles of Smiles 'taxi'.
When they got home after the show the first word they all said was 'WOW'. They loved the celeb lifestyle amd the second row seats. Everyone sang along all the way through the show.
Step dad Russell said afterwards: 'From all here - thanks so much. These are memories the girls will have forever and for us seeing them so excited is always a great treat.'
 Naomi is 10 and lives with her mum and Marv the crazy dalmatian. Just last year, Naomi's step dad, James died very suddenly of an unknown heart condition. He was just 33. Not only does Naomi miss James like mad but she worries about her mum missing him too. Mum says that sometimes Naomi takes on the role of mum and looks after her making sure that she is ok regardless of how Naomi must be feeling. Mum loves Naomi to bits, is really proud of her and asked of she could have a smile to say thank you.
Naomi said that she'd like to meet someone famous or go to see Holly Oaks being made and meet some of the cast. This was a challenge to us but you know how we like at challenge at Miles of Smiles.............
I don't exactly know how we managed it but somehow we did and Naomi, mum and best friend Ellie set off in a limo to go to the set. They had a bit of a trauma on the way when the limo had some kind of a breakdown but Big Phil the driver was not to be deterred and swung into Superman type action solving the problem.
They arrived at the set to be met by some of the cast and then spent all afternoon being shown round. They went all over - into make up and the green room and Naomi and Ellie even managed to be extras in one scene. They had the most amazing day. Mum said that after the most horrible eighteen months their day at Holly Oaks really made them smile and they couldn't believe it was happening.
 Finlay is the middle of two brothers Jake and Elliot. Jake, 7, is severly disabled and Finlay is a great help to mum helping to look after Jake and Elliot and also looking after himself sometimes by doing things like getting himself dressed when mum has to concentrate on Jake's needs. Its very hard doing ordinary things like having family days out but Finlay just accepts this and never moans.
His mum said he is very deserving of a treat. Finlay loves three things - animals , dinosaurs and dens. Mum told us he's been to every animal park in Lancashire and surrounding districts - we were pretty sure we couldn't come up with a dinosaur so we went for the thrird choice - a den.
While Finlay was at school some brave chaps spent the day putting together a very posh den. We filled it with 'den' type goodies - walkie talkie, torch, night lights, sleeping bag and hung a big banner proclaiming 'FINLAY'S DEN' . We waited for Finlay to come home and see it. He stopped in his tracks but the friends who were with him weren't quite so surprised and piled in.
We know that Finlay will spend the whole summer camping out in the back garden doing important 'den' tasks.
A lovely smile for a lovely little boy.
 Danyelle was nominated by her mum. Danyelle,13 has a chromosone defect that affects her in all sorts of ways and she has spent more than her fair share of life in and out of hospital. She is, her mum says, a little star who is kind and loving and is an inspiration to everyone around her.
Dan was meant to be a bridesmaid some time ago but it never happened so mum thought that Dan would love to be a bridesmaid for her smile. We didn't know anyone who is getting married so we decided on the next best thing. Dan modelled bridesmaid dresses at a Bridal Fayre in Leyland.
The day started when Mim the beauty therapist turned up to make sure that her hair, make up and nails were perfect for a model. Lots of sparkles were involved here! Most of Dan's family were waiting for the mini bus to take her to her 'gig' and of course, Dan was at a loss for words when she saw Phil and the limo at her front door and so she set off to set the cat walk on fire!
Danyelle went with mum to the dressing room where all the models were getting ready and tried on her own dresses. She looked like a Princess and completely stole the show!
Afterwards mum said to us: 'Thank you for a special memory I will hold in my heard forever. Thank you to you all. Forever I will hold that smile you gave Danyelle. Live, love and laugh.'
Rebecca is fifteen and lives with her mum, Melanie and dog, Oscar. Melanie has had three strokes in the past twelve months and struggles quite a bit because of this. Rebecca is her saviour looking after her round the clock - cooking, cleaning, helping mum to bed, doing her hair and generally cheering her up. They are both massive Liverpool FC fans and Rebecca asked if maybe she could go and watch a match.
It was arranged for December 18th - the day the country came to a standstill because of the snow! Match cancelled but re-arranged for January. Liverpool v Fulham.
Rebecca, Mel, brother Adam and mum's carer Bekki - dressed in red, of course - were all waiting for us and the local taxi firm to turn up. We gave Rebecca some spending money for a souvenir and the precious tickets. Our local taxi firm is Sophisticars and when Phil arrived in his uniform and limo everyone nearly exploded with excitement.
They travelled to Anfield in style then went and disrupted the shop before settling down to watch the match - though 'settling' may not be the most accurate word to use.
Liverpool won 1 - 0 and Mel wrote to us:
I dont know what to say but THANKYOU what a magical night i couldnt believe what you all did it was amazing.
I keep thinking about it and more bits of the night keep coming back to me, wow im still smiling now and crying lol coz we have never experienced kindness like you all showed from the first meet through to last night.
It was worth it!!
DUE TO LACK OF SPACE WE HAVE DELETED SOME OF THE STORIES FROM 2008/9/10/11
Ashley's mum has a lot of problems and struggles to look after him so Ashley often ends up looking after mum and himself. He misses out on a lot of things both at school and socially.
He was really thrilled when he was nominated for a 'smile' and asked for an IPOD touch. No problem. Easy peasy. So we took it to Ashley on the last day of the school term along with a few extras and a lot of sweets. A special early Christmas pressy for a special young man
 Alicia has to live with her nanna, Linda as her mum suffers from very severe mental health problems and can't look after Alicia properly. Alicia misses her mum but sees her regularly but finds having an ill mum very upsetting.
Alicia loves animals and JLS so it was a tough decision - should she choose looking after animals or looking AT JLS . JLS won and so Alicia, best friend Katy, nanna and nanna's friend Carmel all went to the concert at the MEN.
We sent Alicia and Katy a JLS t shirt a few weeks earlier and on the night gave Alicia some spening money. All four girls were very excited when the limo uirned up to take them. It was very touch and go on the motorway and they only arrived at the MEN at the last minute. But well worth all the stress as the concert was fantastic.
Jessica, 13 is one of six children with the youngest being only two. Older brother Kallum is severely disabled with autism and had problems communicating and struggles with his mobility. He takes a lot of mum's time and Jessica often has to look after the rest of the family and misses out on things at school and doesn't have much time for herself.
Jessica was another youngster who asked if she could have a notebook. We managed to actually surprise her on our visit by presenting her with one there and then. No waiting around for Christmas. She was really thrilled.
Robyn is 17 and helps look after both dad and younger brother James who is 8. Robyn's mum died two years ago from cancer so Robyn has had to be 'mum'. Dad has lots of health problems having suffered from a brain tumour some time ago and Robyn copes with everything thrown at her. She excelled at school this year and is now starting her 'A' levels hoping to become a vet at the end of it. She's a clever lass obviously. Robynn was really thrilled to be nominated and asked if she could have a notebook to make her studies easier. No problem at al
Philipa, 5 lives with mum and elder sister Hannah, a hamster, two rabbits and lots of fish. Hannah has Rett syndrome which means she is unable to talk or walk and needs 24 hour care. Philipa loves Hannah to pieces but sometimes feels a bit left out and since she started school has realised that other little girls have older sisters they can play with. Mum asked if we could give Philipa a 'smile'. At first, Philipa thought she would like bunk beds so that her friends could come and stay but as Hannah often doesn't sleep through the night and disturbs everyone mum didn't think it would be such a good idea so Philipa decided she would like a Notebook.
Buying a notebook is a very easy thing to so and as you know we like to make our 'smiles' as special as we can.
Mum told us that Philipa loved magic and so we arranged for Philipa, Hannah, mum and grandma to come along to our Afternoon Tea that we held at the Cottage Tea Room in Brinscall. Philipa and Hannah were both dressed for the Halloween occasion and were thrilled when Mr Jolly started his magic show. We don't know how he did it - but Mr Jolly found the purple notebook in a big box - it was magic!
Alicia is 9 and she helps her mum around the house - according to mum she is a brilliant cook and makes a mean cake! Mum has diabetes and is blind so Alicia has to be her 'eyes'.
One day in July when alone with mum, Alicia realised that mum was having a hypoglycaemic episode and calmly dialled 999. She listened to the operator's instructions and waited for the ambulance to come. She even made the crew a cup of coffee and cake when they arrived. Mum had no idea any of this was going on and is rightly very proud of Alicia.
Alicia knew what she wanted before we got there - a notebook - and as its our business to be magic we were able to produce one almost as soon as we got there. A lovely surprise for a lovely young girl.
 Gorgeous Phoebe is 4 and lives with brother Jack, mum Donna and grandma Barbara. Mum has inoperable lung cancer and has good days and bad days. She spends much time in hospital and Phoebe misses her mum a lot.
Phoebe had no idea about her special day and was most foxed when we arrived. We explained that, despite lack of glitter and wands, we were sort of falry godmothers. She wasn't convinced. We had a big bag of presents which she unwrapped very quickly and found her princess outfit - pink dress, glittery shoes, tiara, and a Princess bag full of bits and pieces. She dressed in a nano second and we told her that we would take her out for the afternoon. Phoebe thought it would be ok to go on the bus until she saw the horse drawn Cinderella carriage outside her front door. At this point Phoebe seemed a bit more convinced about us being fairy godmothers.
The carriage - pulled by Bobby - took Phoebe, Donna and Barbara along the road and magically Princess Phoebe knew that they were going to Macdonalds. The VIPs were met by staff at Macdonalds where they were shown to the VIP area reserved especially for Princess Phoebe and her followers after been given a round of applause when they entered the restaurant. Every Princess would choose a Happy Meal being careful not to get sauce on the pink dress.
Finally Bobby took Princess Phoebe home again ready to start school later that week - somehow we think that pink glittery shoes may become part of the uniform.
Hannah, 15 was found to have a brain tumour when she was 7. She recovered from this but the tumour returned and Hannah spent twelve months in hospital. She has had an incredibly hard time as it has left her disabled, her sight and hearing have been affected and she is unable to swallow so has to be fed through tube in her stomach.
She so deserved something to make her smile and asked if she and mum could go on a shopping trip to the Trafford Centre. No problem at all.
The 'big taxi' arrived to pick up Hannah, mum Karen and sister Chris (and nephew Oliver who has yet to make a personal appearance in the world) on a lovely sunny morning. They drove off to the Manchester - Hannah with spending money and vouchers - in style with glasses of bubbly all ready to shop till they dropped!.
 The quickest smile we have ever done happened when we went to meet Kirstyn to ask what she would like to do for her smile. Kirstyn is 13 and looks after her mum and elder sister who both have learning difficulties. Kirstyn has struggled to attend school when the demands at home were too much for her but recently the family have had more support from care workers so this has meant that Kirstyn has been able to attend regularly. Everyone, including Kirstyn, is very proud of her acheivement so she was nominated for a smile.
She had thought that she would love a day at the Pleasure Beach in Blackpool but really deep down wanted a lap top but thought it was too much and didn't like to ask. It so happened that when we went to visit we had just picked up a lap top for a smile later in the week so we were able to give this one to Kirstyn. She was over the moon. ( And promised us that she will use the lap top to help her school work.)
Amber is the eldest of three beautiful little girls. She is almost 7 - sister Mia is 4 and Lacey is 2. Amber was diagnosed earlier this year with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and since her diagnosis has been through a ton of treatment. She has spent more time in hospital that at school and in September when she goes back to school will be Mrs Graham's special helper. Her hair is just growing back and Amber cannot wait for it to become 'Princess hair' once again. She will continue to have treatment for - literally - years.
We were asked if we could get Amber a lap top which - apart from anything - will help her with her school work - thought to be honest that isn't half as interesting as playing games and painting pictures!
Job's a good un. We went and delivered our parcel to Amber who was thrilled and we got three fantastic smiles from three fantastic little girls. Now that's a bargain!
Sixteen year old Ashleigh was nominated by her mum. Ashleigh's older sister, Alex has learning difficulties and had recently been diagnosed with Melas. In the past twelve months Ashleigh discovered that she suffers frim Crohn's disease. Because of this she has had to spend quite a bit of time in hospital and quite a lot of time off school. She has to take lots of medication and as mum says: she worries about her own health but worries more about her sister. A deserving case.
Ashleigh asked if we would organise a makeover for her Prom night and if she could go to the Prom in a horse drawn Cinderella carrriage.
We took Ashleigh for a spray tan a couple of days before the Prom and on the afternoon of the Prom we took her to be pampered. She had her make-up, hair and nails done and looked a proper bobby dazzler.
Sister Alex went to meet the carriage and rode in it back to the family home where Ashleigh was waiting dressed in rose pink and looking truly stunning. Dad had been despatched to pick up friends who were also going to the Prom in the carriage. All heads turned, cars stopped and people came out of their houses to see the girls as Bart the horse pulled them to the venue. A magical smile.
Nicole and her mum both suffer from a rare condition called Oculodentodigital dysplasia. They are the only ones in the home - apart from Daisy the dog and Kiwi the parrot -and so Nicole helps her mum in evey way possible. Mum struggles with many things and often has to use a wheelchair. Nicole loves animals but chose to go to Blackpool Pleasure Beach as she loves to go on rides.
Best friend Nikita and grandma Ann were ready and waiting - all wearing the same style shoes - on a lovely sunny Sunday and were thrilled to be taken to the Pleasure Beach in a limo. Gran Ann reported back that they had had a really fantastic time but she felt like she'd been through a tumble dryer!
12 year old Laura is part of a dance group called Preston Rosettes. Laura's mum has been ill for a couple of years with cancer and has had to undergo lots of treatment. Laura's dance teacher, Nicola, told us that every year all the girls go away with their mums for a weekend to the UK championships. It is a great time for all the team members and supporters to have fun and after the dancing they relax and celebrate their season - and hopefully, their win! BUT due to mum's illness it looked like Laura and mum wouldn't be able to afford to go and so Nicola asked if Miles of Smiles would pay for them. Laura loves her dancing and has been part of the group since she was about 4 years old. How could we say no?!?
The Rosettes are off to the championships in November and going with them will be Laura and her mum Susan. We also gave them some spending money and importantly, some New Look vouchers to Laura so she can have some new outfits for the weekend.
GOOD LUCK ROSETTES!!
Nine year old Georgia lives with her mum, Tracy. Tracy has cancer and has to undergo regular treatment which tires her out. Georgia helps mum with the household tasks and looks after mum when she is recovering from her chemo. She was nominated by her godmother, Julia who said that Georgia really deserved a 'smile'. She had no idea that she had been nominated so it was a bit of a shock when we appeared at the front door. So much so she had no idea what to choose.
Eventually after much mulling, Georgia decided she's like to go to a concert and we managed to get her tickets to see Lady Gaga at the MEN in Manchester. A special night needs a new outfit so we gave Georgia some vouchers to buy something special and didn't she look a bobby dazzler on the night! Georgia, best friend Freya, mum and god mum Julia were all at a loss for words when the 'taxi' arrived. They weren't expecting a limo.
Lady Gaga was, according to Georgia, great and the limo was 'beautiful'. Enough said!
7 year old Morgan is like a little mother to her younger brother, Jack. Jack can be quite hard work and very demanding due to his difficulties. Little Jack has speech & language problems, dyspraxia and asd. Morgan never moans or retaliates even when Jack pulls her hair or hits her. Mum, Michelle told us that Morgan can be pushed out and takes second place due to Jack's needs. Morgan just wanted a special time with her mum so she thought it would be quite nice of the two of them went to a show - so we sent them to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Manchester.
Morgan was delighted when she saw that there was £20 spending money tucked inside the tickets and she was speechless when the limo arrived to take them to the show. Two lovely ladies arriving in style!
Mum said afterwards:
Thank you Milies of smiles for making Morgan having the biggest smile of her life !. Morgan and I had a lovely time at Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Limo was absoultely fantastic! Morgan was speechless and felt so overwhelmed. Morgan couldnt believe she had £20 too !. Morgan bought a pragramme to cherish forever, sweets, ice cream and drinks. Her Mum was emotional too that Karen had made all this possible!. What a brilliant charity!. Morgan felt so important and loved that special mummy time, she will never forget it. Morgan cant wait to tell all her friends at school !.
Thank you once again, truly wonderful !
Michelle and Morgan x
Kieran is 9 and lives with his mum who has very poor health and dad who is visually impaired. He helps his mum around the house and his dad when he struggles to see. He also helps to look after his little sister, Ellie. Kieran is a big Southport FC fan and has asked if we can arrange for him to meet them.
Southport FC were wonderful and arranged for Kieran to be a mascot. Kieran, mum, dad, Ellie and best friend Imran travelled to Haig Avenue in a limo and were met by Hadyn Preece the club's Chief Executive. They all enjoyed a delicious lunch in the Players' Lounge then Kieran went to get changed into the strip given to him by the club. Before he met the playershe enjoyed a kick about with Imran then went through the tunnel leading the team out onto the pitch. 'This is my dream' he said. Everyone watched the exciting match in the Vice President's Box and saw Southport draw 3 all with Droylsden.
After the game Kieran was invited back to the Player's Lounge where he was given a signed match ball. Massive smiles for the whole family.
Brother and sister Stephen, 16 and Sarah, 12 were nominated by their Aunty May. Their elder brother Jason has been severely disabled from birth and is now very ill. This means that things like holidays or even just family days out are impossible. Their needs often come second to those of Jason who requires all mum and dad's attention.and Aunty May said that they love their brother so much - they find it difficult to see him as ill as he is.
Stephen decided he would like to go paintballing. Along with his friends Gareth and Steven they were thrilled to see a limo outside the door ready to transport them to the paintballing site. At the end of a very bumpy track we came to the paintballing site where along with 20+ other like minded young men they spent the morning shooting each other and having a brilliant time in the cold. The day finished at Macdonalds, of course.
Sarah is a big JLS fan who happened to be appearing in Blackpool. We managed to get some tickets for the show but before that gave Sarah £50 to buy a new outfit for her special night. A VIP trip in the limo, drinking sparkly 'wine' started their night off in style. The waited in the queue for a few minutes before hurtling in to the theatre. They sang and danced and screamed and generally had a really fantastic night. Back home in the limo they swore that Marvin was just gorgeous and it had been a wonderful night.
David is 10 and helps to look after both his younger brother Logan who has learning difficulties and mum who has severe heart problems. He sometimes misses school because of his caring role and doesn't have much free time. David asked if he could ride in a tank. Problem here - the tanks are all in Afghanistan! So he had mentioned he'd like to captain a boat.
On Christmas Eve David and his friend Adam were taken in a bright red Tonka type truck to Liverpool Docks. There they were met by staff from the Mersey Ferry company and at 2.10 they boarded the Royal Daffodil. It was very cold but David - now dressed in his captain's outfit - and Adam were shown round the vessel as it crossed the Mersey. They finally arrived in the engine room where David with the help of the captain - took the helm. He happily steered it until it finally docked back where it had started.
The perfect end to a fabulous Christmas eve had to be Macdonald's. Then off home to wait for Father Christmas.
One of our 'smile' children from last year has been through a tough time in hospital recently so we decided it was time for another 'smile'
Chelsea sang on the stage during the panto in Blackburn last Christmas so we needed to do something different this time.
During our trip to Blackpool Illuminations we saw the most wonderful horse drawn Cinderella carriage that was all lit up and Chelsea immediately came to our minds. As she is in so much pain we had to wait till quite a while after her operation.
On the day, Chelsea had no idea at all that anything was going to happen so when the front room curtains were pulled back and she saw the carriage she was, for a short time, lost for words. 'Is it for me? A royal princess carriage.'
It was really cold and foggy but after saying hallo to Bridie the horse, Chelsea was bundled up tightly in her wheelchair inside the carriage and off they trotted though the streets. Friends and neighbours had been primed and came out to wave her off. Chelsea sat back and enjoyed the journey seeing all the Christmas lights on the houses.
As we arrived at Chelsea's local community centre we could hear the chant 'Chelsea! Chelsea!' and standing in the freezing cold were friends, neighbours and generally Chelsea's many fans. They held a banner saying 'We love Chelsea' and 'Princess Chelsea'. They crowded round the coach giving Princess Chelsea cards and kisses. Then off back home with pre arranged another stop on the way.
A magical time for a special young lady.
Naomi is almost 12 and her older brother Sam who is autistic. Earlier this year Sam had to go and live away from the family home and Naomi misses very much. He is, she says, her best friend. Whilst life at home is in some ways a lot easier, Sam's being away from home has left a big hole in everyone's life.
Naomi came up with the idea of going to the set of Coronation Street........... hmmmm....... we weren't at all sure we'll be able to do that. But as usual, we tried our best and amazingly we did it.
Naomi's biggest surprise was her and mum's transport to the Street. The look on her face was amazing when Phil came to the door but she soon got used to the VIP life as we hurtled down the motorway.
We were met at the studio by our guide, Alan, who took us onto the actual street. Naomi ran round trying every door and having her picture taken just about everywhere. The we went into the studio and saw the sets - the Kabin, Rovers, Dev's shop, the taxi office and all the houses. While we were looking we bumped into Steve and Becky who had their photos taken with Naomi. Off to lunch in the canteen where we met Simon's grandad George (more photos) and saw Ken Barlow too. A final trip down the street and then back in the limo to head for home but not before we saw Jeremy Kyle outside the studio.
Naomi said afterwards: 'Thanks to Miles of Smiles. You put a massive smile on my face that never came off and that I will always remember.'
Tom is twelve and has two older brothers both of whom have severe learning disabilities. Tom helps mum and dad care for them both which is hard work as they are quite demanding. Initially Tom asked if he could go in a fast car - a Ferrari or the like - but when we told him he could take a friend he changed his mind and has asked if he can be picked up from school in a limo.
Because brothers Nathan and Ashley take up so much of mum and dad's time and energy, Tom often finds that his needs come last. This wasn't the case on his 'smile' day!
The limo arrived in the school car park and Tom's whole class were green with envy when they looked out of the window. We xplained why Tom had been chosen for a 'smile' and everyone clapped. No one could have doubted who the limo was for as we had a massive banner reading 'LIMO FOR TOM HINDS' and a PA system announcing the fact!
Tom, best friend Liam and girlfriend Tara were whisked home to get changed then taken off for tea along with their mums Gill and Ann. There was a slight detour on the way to the restaurant via an exclusive garage that is stocked with Ferraris, Aston Martins, Bentleys and many other very swish cars. Tom was at a loss for words as he wandered round. He sat in a black Ferrari and vowed to work very hard at school so that one day maybe................ he could come back and buy one.
Everyone then enjoyed a really fabulous meal and there were many, many smiles. Tom was looking forward to going to school the next day to make everyone even more envious. A well deserved treat.
In 2008 we had a really lovely smile for Chelsea who sang on the stage during the pantomime in Blackburn. Mum contacted us asking if we could give brother Timmy a 'smile' too. Timmy has cerebral palsy has to use a wheelchair full time, has severe learning difficulties and struggles with communication but he LOVES the Teletubbies.
The Teletubbies were appearing at the Trafford Centre so we arranged for Timmy, mums Alison and Barbara and Aunty Joan to be VIPs. Everyone had a truly wonderful time, singing and dancing along with the Teletubbies - not least Timmy who smiled through the whole show.
Jordan is 14 and helps both mum and dad. Mum, Sharon, has emphysema and is on oxygen 14 hours a day as well as inhalers and medication. She rarely leaves the house and when she does has to go in a wheelchair. Dad, Joe, also has health problems having had major back surgery when he had rods inserted.
Jordan helps with the shopping, washes up, vacuums and does the laundry so he well deserving of a smile.
His choice was to go to the zoo for a day. Jordan, brother Anthony and sister, Louise all arrived is style in a limo to be met by staff at Blackpool Zoo. Jordan got very involved with the lemurs - helping feed them and playing with them and he also helped the lion keepers get their food ready. They spent the whole day amongst the animals and arrived home with over 400 photographs of a very special day for a very deserving young man.
Terri-ann was nominated by her dad, Terry. Terry told us that he suffers from many health problems - angina, epilepsy, diabetes, coronary heart disease and asthma. This means they can't have a normal family life.
Terri-ann, he said, spends most of her time at home helping dad with his tasks and mum with cleaning. She knows what to do in an emergency - which spray to use and how to work the lifeline button. Terry said that he is very proud of her and if it wasn't for Terri-ann's support and care mum would not be able to have a break.
Terri-ann asked to go to Blackpool Pleasure Beach on her twelfth birthday. Friend, Heather, mum and dad all joined her. Terri-ann pretended to be very cool when the limo arrived. Dad said;
'Excited is not a big enough word to cover it. She was on a high especially when the driver opened the drink for her to enjoy on the trip and she saw the tv playing the music videos.'
The whole family had a wonderful day. A birthday to remember.
Emma K is 15 - almost 16 and we've been organising and planning her 'smile' for months.
Emma helps mum around the house with all the household chores and also spends much of her spare time looking after her niece, Cordy who is 2, who lives with them. Mum suffers from many things but its the chronic arthritis that limits her the most.
The 'smile' was for a prom dress and a makeover. The planning started before Christmas when we found a seamstress and chose the material. Together with the seamstress, Emma designed the dress in pink with black sparkly lace. We had several dress fittings and of course, a shopping trip to buy accessories and once the dress was ready all we had to do was wait for the day of the prom.
Emma went for her makeover looking - shall I say - not at her best. It was the last day of school and she'd had a dance exam when they'd had to cover Michael Jackson's 'Thrller'. This involved looking like a zombie! Most of the make up had been washed off (thank goodness) but Emma still had makeup all over her arms. She spent around three hours in the beauty salon having her hair, nails and make up done. A stunning young woman (in spite of the arms) came out of the salon.
Emma and best buddy Naomi went to the Prom in style. They both looked stunning and it was worth the wait to see Emma looking so magnificent and, of course, to see her smile!
A day at Blackpool Pleasure Beach was the 'smile' that Jack from Leyland chose. Jack helps look after his younger brother Liam who, amongst other things is registered blind and is unable to walk. We called round first thing on Saturday morning to deliver the tickets, some cash for lunch and a little spending money for Jack and then waited for the transport. The transport was, of course, a limo. Jack was thrilled to bits and was very excited as he, Liam, mum and dad set off on their day out - first stop 'The BIG ONE'!!
Mum and dad said afterwards: 'Had a fantastic day. The limo was amazing felt rich for the day. Jack was really chuffed he said it was the best day of his life! Liam was fantastic all day we've never seen him smile so much. We can't thank you enough. It was lovely to spoil Jack all day can't remember the last time we all laughed as we did as a family! It was an experience none of us will forget! All of us thank you from the bottom of our hearts.We hope other families get a chance to experience a 'smile' for the day as they'll never forget it. A BIG THANK YOU FROM ALL OF US. Most of all from Jack the boy with the biggest smile out of everyone
**********
Ebony is 8 and lives with her mum. Ebony is a young carer helping mum with the shopping and tidying and washing. Sometimes, when mum is very ill, Ebony has to go and live with her auntie and they don't often go out together on family days.
Ebony asked if she could have a VIP trip to the cinema or, maybe, a fireman's lift and to go to the fire station to have a look round.
At Mile of Smiles we try not to do things by halves. The Odeon cinema in Preston were very happy to help - Ebony wanted to see 'Bolt' which was on over the half term break. Then we contacted the Red Watch at Preston fire station.......
Ebony received a letter telling her she was to be a VIP guest and we'd pick her up at 2.30pm. She didn't know that the 'WE' was Red Watch. As a VIP guest, a new outfit was needed so as she changed into her designer outfit mum and the rest of the family hopped from foot to foot in excitement waiting for the knock on the door. The look on Ebony's face when she saw two strapping fireman was wonderful. She truly was at a loss for words. But not being a shy girl - it took her about two seconds to get to the fire engine. The whole crew were there to welcome her and show her and her cousin, Megan the engine. Family, neighbours and friends crowded round to see what was happening.
When we arrived at the cinema the press were waiting - what else can you expect when you have VIPs visit? Ebony got the chance to drown everyone when she held the fire hose. (Not so much fun for those of us watching!) We waved goodbye to Red Watch then off to buy popcorn, drinks and sit in the reserved seats to watch 'Bolt' but not before the Odeon gave Ebony and Megan posters of the film.
Ebony's 'smile' ended in Macdonalds before going home to find space for all the posters on her bedroom wall. It was, as Ebony said, 'Paradise. The best day of her life' and she gave it 100/10.
*****
Chloe lives with her mum, dad. brother and we mustn’t forget Bobby the dog.
Dad lives with a degenerative disc disease and brother Alex has cerebral palsy. If that wasn’t enough mum, Heather was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She’s had to undergo major surgery with treatment and more surgery to follow. Needless to say, Chloe is finding all this very hard to deal with so she was nominated for a ‘smile’.
When we visited her Chloe asked if she could have a portfolio of photographs. No problem we said. In fact, not only can we do that but we gave her some spending money so that mum and Chloe could have a girly afternoon buying some bargains. (Just in case, she didn’t have enough outfits to take to the photoshoot.)
Chloe took mum along to the studio with her where Jo from House of Colour did the make up and Lesley from WOW Photographic took over 650 shots. Chloe, who is normally a quiet girl, really threw herself into the part of being a model – she pouted and giggled and shimmied and thoroughly enjoyed herself with mum looking on all the time and occasionally joining Chloe for the odd shot.
Lesley had to whittle down the 650+ shots to 10! Some task. Not only did she do this but she invited friends and family back to the studio for the presentation of the portfolio. Not only was there a portfolio but a dvd of about 80 of the photos and a framed print of mum and Chloe and a cream cake for everyone! Some afternoon.
Chloe’s portfolio is amazing. She looks beautiful and vibrant and sophisticated. Mum shed tears of pride, dad looked a bit concerned at how adult his little girl looked but all in all it was a wonderful afternoon with miles and miles of smiles.
********
Megan's 'smile' was more good luck and tenacity than anything else. Megan is 15 and suffers from spinal muscular atrophy. She is confined to bed virtually all the time. Megan is a big Pussycat Dolls fan and had tickets to see them in Manchester last week. Mum tried
to arrange to get Megan backstage to meet the Dolls but came across nothing but brick walls. Miles of Smiles looked on this
as a challenge! Many phone calls and emails later - we got the go ahead! Megan was to go backstage and meet her idols.
Of course, this was the day that there was a big pile up on the M61 so tension was high in the taxi to the MEN. After virtually three hours
travelling Megan, mum Karen, sister Emma and carer Emma T finally arrived just as the support act, Neo, was on stage. Staff at the
MEN were expecting our VIP.
The Dolls were on and just as the show was coming to a close backstage staff came to collect Megan and her family. Down in the
manager's lift, through mysterious doors and along secret corridors and into a room reserved for VIPS. The Dolls manager Dean,
came into meet Megan and co. Everyone was so excited they nearly burst. Luckily they didn't as the girls came in a few minutes later
and hurtled over to meet Megan. Gorgeous, tiny, friendly, thoughtful, funny - the Pussycat Dolls. They spent about fifteen minutes with Megan, had photographs taken and gave her a few Doll goodies before shooting off to the next venue.
Nothing can express how special this was for Megan and her family - but her smile says it all.
******
Our 20th smile was a very special one. It was our last one of 2008 and made lots of people smile.
8 year old Chelsea Pettitt was nominated by her mum Alison because Alison is so proud of her. And quite rightly so. Chelsea has severe physical disabilities due to cerebral palsy and is dependent on others for all her care needs. She has had a rough time recently having to undergo several nasty medical procedures. But does
Chelsea let all this get her down. Does she heck! She is a cheery young lady who loves to laugh and remains positive and takes the world head on each day.
Alison told us that
Chelsea loves anything to do with the theatre but would really love to go on stage- and maybe sing? Well, at Miles of Smiles we like a challenge………..
Chelsea and her family had arranged to go and see the Wizard of Oz at the Lowry in
Manchester so we contacted them asking if
Chelsea could go back stage to meet the cast. No problem.
But we needed to have this special young lady sing on a stage in front of an audience. So………………
Pendle Productions were putting on Dick Whittington at the Thwaites Empire in
Blackburn so we asked if they could help us. Could they help us? You betcha! Dame Sarah Trott met us before the show and showed us all the secrets backstage. After being treated like royalty and shown to out seats we waited until the beginning of the second half of the show when our own Miles of Smiles VIP went on the stage and sang her heart out with the mermaid. She then joined the cast in the finale. Then it was back onto the stage to meet the cast and have photographs and probing questions from
Chelsea
Afterwards mum Alison said: We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for Chelsea this Christmas, it has been a wonderful lift for her and for all of us too, we are indebted to you and think you and all at Miles of Smiles are the nicest people we've ever met. We have been telling everyone we speak to how wonderful you have been to us. For
Chelsea it has been a truly memorable treat, it has made her so happy at a time where she is having so much awful pain, thanks so so much. Alison and Barbara.
Chelsea ’s smile said it all.
*****
James is from Bamber Bridge near Preston. James, 7 is lively, chatty, very handsome and football mad. Mum, Helen nominated James for a ‘smile’ as she and dad Ian are so proud of James.
James’ elder brother, Jack has many medical problems which affect the whole family and they are unable to do things that other families take for granted such as going on family days out. James is very proud of Jack and supports him and helps him all he can. It is the small things that James does to help Jack that make Helen and Ian proud – making sure Jack is not left out and holding his hand when he is being fed.
James asked if his ‘smile’ could be for him to be a mascot for his local football team, Bamber Bridge. James’ special day started with an interview for Radio Lancashire when James was asked to compose a team song. All I can say is that his football talents are far greater then his song writing!
That evening, Bamber Bridge police chauffeured the family to the ground where they were met by the chairman, Terry Gammans. James was given a massive goody bag before giving the team talk. He led the team out onto the pitch and then finally, chose the Man of the Match. The score might not have been as James would have liked but it didn’t really matter.
A wonderful time for a special young man and smiles all around.
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