When adventure called, our friends at Rocky Mountaineer answered with open hearts! This fall, 15 families with seriously ill children from across the country gathered in Banff, Alberta, for an unforgettable 2-day train ride to Vancouver, British Columbia. Generously donated by Rocky Mountaineer, this life-changing experience through the majestic Canadian Rockies brought much-needed moments of relief, joy, and a lifetime of memories for our Starlight families, every step of the way.
Check out the incredible moments shared on the Rocky Mountaineer train!
Equipped with round-trip flights generously provided by Aeroplan and the Air Canada Foundation, the journey for our Starlight families began in their home provinces. For some kids, like 7-year-old Crystal, who bravely lives with central nervous system cancer, it was her first time ever flying on an airplane!
Upon arrival in Banff, Alberta, they were greeted by a whirlwind of exciting and heartfelt activities. Thanks to the Ardene Foundation, a shopping spree at the local Ardene store kicked off our adventure, allowing kids to pick out treasures for the journey ahead. Then, after indulging in delicious treats at the Banff Sweet Shoppe with Regal Confections, Starlight families ended the day with a breathtaking gondola ride donated by Pursuit, giving everyone a stunning, heartwarming view of the town from above.
The following two days brought excitement and wonder as our adventurers embarked on this once-in-a-lifetime trip across Western Canada. Between forming new, lasting friendships while playing games, sharing heartfelt stories over delicious meals, connecting with the amazing train staff, and spending precious family time together, every moment on the Rocky Mountaineer was pure magic.
“Being part of such a unique and exciting experience made our child feel more independent and capable. It was empowering to see her thrive in a new environment,” shared Starlight mom, Helen. “The trip gave us the courage to imagine more possibilities for future adventures together.”
Helen’s daughter, 12-year-old Ruby, lives with ZTTK syndrome, a rare condition that often limits her from participating in activities that other kids her age enjoy, including traveling. For Ruby, this journey was a chance to step outside of her comfort zone, discovering a world of possibilities she rarely gets to experience.
Meanwhile, being on the Rocky Mountaineer gave 9-year-old Eric, who lives with leukemia, a special opportunity to connect with other children facing similar challenges. “Eric just goes with the flow, and because he appears outwardly to be a ‘typical’ kid, we sometimes forget how affected he’s been by his illness and treatment,” shared his mom, Jaqueline. “He can’t stop talking about how nice it is to have kids that he can relate to.”
This journey through the mountains and across the skies was more than just a trip – it was a gift of joy, connection, and togetherness for our Starlight families. To our incredible friends at Rocky Mountaineer, the Air Canada Foundation, and Aeroplan, thank you for reminding us of the power of connection, adventure, and community.