Christian Lewis Trust Children's Cancer Charity

Sandcastles - Billy's Story
Image depicting Billy's Story
Billy was 5 yrs old and was terminally ill. He did not have long left. His parents, family and friends all wanted to do whatever they could for him. They were all so sad. They raised funds to give Billy whatever he wanted. He deserved the very best of anything. When they asked Billy what he wanted most in the world they expected to hear 'to see Mickey Mouse, go to Disneyland, have a computer, meet his favorite pop star etc'. Whatever he wanted they were prepared to do doesn't matter what it cost.

When asked Billy thought for a while and stayed quiet and looked thoughtful he then said 'Do you mean anything, anything at all'. When he was reassured that yes they did a big smile came over his face and he said 'Please, please can I build a sandcastle'. Everyone was shocked such a simple thing that he wanted but one which could prove so difficult to achieve due to treatments, infections etc. and it was early March as well. The hospital approached us 'Can you help?' They told us about Billy and we were determined to help him to build his sandcastle.

All the caravans were closed down for the Winter Season and not due to be opened until mid April. With all hands on deck, a lot of persuasion and a lot of hard work we achieved it. We got the water and gas reconnected the caravan fully up and running, a deep clean was done, all carpets curtains etc shampooed and all within 4 days. We were exhausted but ready for Billy. We made arrangements for a nurse to visit Billy at the caravan daily and his hospital linked up with the local hospital which is only 2 miles from our caravan.

All was set Billy was on his way. He was so excited to be going to the seaside to build his sandcastle. He loved the caravan. The pride he had when he built what must surely be the best sandcastle in the whole world was so heartwarming. In fact, with help, he built many sandcastles in the few days he stayed at our caravan. When he was too tired to go onto the beach he enjoyed just sitting by the window and looking at the sea and sand. He went back home feeling happy, still with a smile on his face and a photo clutched in his hand of him with his best sandcastle. Billy died 3 days later. Although devastated the family were so glad that they had these memories of Billy doing what he had wanted to do most and the photos of Billy smiling whilst building his sandcastle.

During the last year we arranged a UK Holiday for 687 children and adults and for a further 99 to have a special outing or weekend trip.