Make-A-Wish Canada bringing Quebec kids to Cancun

Make-A-Wish Canada is taking 30 children and their families on a week-long getaway at a Mexican all-inclusive beachfront resort.

Luka Bourdon’s family of five are among those taking off, and his mother, Judith Gosselin, says they have never taken a trip like this before.

“We’re very excited. We’re very happy to finally get to do a trip with the whole family, because it’s very hard with this disease to go out of the house. This is a lovely gift!” she told CTV News.

Luka is four years old and is missing an enzyme that would make it possible for him to digest fat. It accumulates in his little body and he needs weekly treatments to eliminate it.

Abdou Aziz received a cancer diagnosis right after his third birthday about a year ago. His mom Aissata says this trip is a stress reliever.

“We’re really happy,” she said.

Make-A-Wish Canada offers uplifting experiences for children with critical illnesses, giving them a break from their treatment journey. The registered charity says this kind of positivity is a boost to the young patients.

Over 70 percent of wish requests involve travel.

Alexis Gaiptman, vice president for Eastern Canada and Quebec at Make-A-Wish Canada, says last year was record-breaking for the charity.

“We had 2,011 wishes granted across the country, which is a 45 per cent increase from the year before,” she said.

On this trip, Sunwing Vacations is offering the charter flights.

Lyne Chayer of Québec Sunwing Vacations Group says it’s a first for the company.

“With our foundation, normally we would fund activities in destination. It’s the first time that we really do something for the community here in Québec,” she said.

The group is heading for the Planet Hollywood Resort in Cancun, Mexico for sun, sand and surf. And, of course, dinosaurs at the water park, a Jurassic-themed distraction for the whole family.

“He saw the pictures. He was excited to see the dinosaurs!” said Luka’s mother.