Through the Reach for a Dream Foundation, 16-year-old Christie paused her battle with lymphoma to embrace the freedom of the skies in a hot air balloon!
Parys, South Africa (09 January 2026) – For years, the Reach for a Dream Foundation (RFAD) has given children battling life-threatening illnesses beyond their years moments of joy, days filled with dreams come true, and unforgettable gifts.
Recently, 16-year-old Christie stepped into her Dream Day with the gentle warmth and quiet courage that define her.
Living with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (a rare, aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma), Christie has a deep love for animals, the outdoors, and the freedom she finds in horse riding.
Her shy smile grew brighter with every glance at the hot air balloon waiting for her in the early Parys sunrise!
As the sun lifted over Stonehenge Lodge, Christie and her parents climbed into the balloon basket, her excitement unmistakable.
When the balloon rose into the sky, she waved eagerly, her eyes sparkling with wonder.
“For those peaceful moments above the landscape, Christie wasn’t just floating; she was soaring beyond every worry, wrapped in calm, beauty, and pure joy,” RFAD shared.
RFAD strives to craft unforgettable experiences that not only bring immediate joy but also strengthen youngsters’ resilience and optimism in facing their health challenges. And in those extraordinary moments, Christie got to experience freedom away from the constraints of her illness.
“After landing, her first words were, ‘it was amazing!’ Her family echoed the sentiment, calling the experience unforgettable. Christie even handed us chocolates as a heartfelt thank you, a small gesture that captured her sweet, appreciative nature.”
Christie’s sparkling eyes and shy smile tell a story that words cannot: the story of a courageous girl who, for one morning, felt lighter than air.
Happy Dream Day, Christie!
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