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What is DREAMFLIGHT?

Dreamflight is a registered UK charity whose purpose is to take seriously ill children on their 'holiday of a lifetime' to Disneyworld in Florida. While many charities devote their energies to funding long term research projects or the purchase of expensive medical equipment, the people at Dreamflight think it is just as important to bring some fun and joy into the lives of children who perhaps can't wait long enough for the medical breakthrough they need or whose illnesses and treatments have brought pain, distress and disruption to their lives. How was DREAMFLIGHT started? The original concept was devised in 1986 by Derek Pereira and Patricia Pearce, together with a small group of British Airways staff. Their dedication culminated in a Boeing 747 full of 288 sick children and their adult helpers flying off to Disneyworld for five magical days in November 1987. The original Dreamflight was only intended to be a 'one off' trip but the '87 flight was such a success that it has now become an annual event.
How is it organised? While many of the organisers are currently employed by British Airways and the airline gives considerable support, the charity is purely staff initiative and is therefore independent both financially and organisationally from the airline. All the fundraising projects are undertaken by individuals on a self-financing basis and the organisation is undertaken by volunteers. Day-to-day control is provided by an Administrator.