It’s not every day you get to live out your wildest dream. But brave little Alia got to do just that, overjoyed and filled with wonder as she got to be a firefighter for a day.
Cape Town, South Africa (10 December 2024) – The thrill of riding a fire engine, gearing up in a helmet and being in the presence of real-life heroes was a dream come true for little Alia.
Alia and her younger brother, Alonzo, were treated to an unforgettable day at the Roland Street Fire Station, thanks to Reach for a Dream volunteer Renee Kemm and Engen’s Employee Community Partnership Programme.
For a day, this very special eight-year-old got to experience what it’s like to be a firefighter – an adventure that she had long wished for.
“It was incredibly moving to see the happiness and excitement in Alia and Alonzo,” says Renee who played a key role in bringing Alia’s dream to life.
“Both of them left the fire station with huge smiles. Knowing I played a small part in making Alia’s dream come true was a very special moment for me.
The joy on the precious girl’s face was a sight to behold as she tried on firefighting equipment, learned about the heroic work of firefighters, and even received gifts ranging from toys and sneakers to a tablet.
For Renee, who raised funds through raffle tickets sold at a gold day towards making Alia’s dream become a reality, this is what makes the work with Reach for a Dream so rewarding.
Reach for a Dream is dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children battling serious illnesses and relies on the support of donors to make dreams like Alia’s come true.
“These children face tremendous hardship and are in desperate need of joy and encouragement,” adds Heidi Rowley, Western Cape Branch Manager at Reach for a Dream, emphasising that support helps create magical moments that give these children hope.
Sources: Reach for a Dream
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