Testimonials

“A few weeks ago we had the pleasure of staying in Maddi’s Mobile Home, sorry just can’t call it a caravan…Here is our personal experience.

“From the very minute we entered the site we felt looked after. The gate security welcomed us to the site and gave us directions of where we needed to go to collect our packs and most importantly our keys. We were directed to the Owners Office again in here we were looked after so well. The reception staff talked us through the activities and facilities our passes would give us access whilst on the site etc. They gave us a map too find our ‘new home’. The position of the caravan is tucked away in a very beautiful and quiet part of the site. It’s right near the entrance so very easy to find.

“Anthony opened up and we let Ruby in first…we could hear cheers and whoops of excitement from here. You really have made it so beautiful inside, it has a very light, spacious and calming feel and we felt instantly at home. Ruby enjoyed unpacking and within an hour of being there she was cuddled up with her Dad watching a movie. She didn’t want to move out on the first evening! However we did manage to eat our dinner on the patio outside, we even had visitors, 2 baby rabbits playing on the lawn in front. We did manage to get her out of the caravan the next day and went to see what was on offer at the activity centre. We went swimming together, something we haven’t done in a long time! Then into a lovely restaurant for lunch. Well then I am afraid it was the amusement arcade time. Ruby took with her big bag of copper and she loved the 2 penny slide and of course the grab a teddy (luck was with us and she won one…eventually). For me it was wonderful to see her having so much fun and for us to feel so relaxed. You really have thought of everything from the site, Martin Mere has something for everyone. It’s a stunning well kept site for the families. Just 10 mins into Blackpool. A beautiful Caravan, from the ramped access into the caravan, the large bathrooms (and I must say one of the best showers I have ever had). Everything is gleaming and so inviting. There are so so many extra things for families in the Caravan that make it extra special and a home from home, there’s DVD’s, the game station, board games etc.

“We came home totally relaxed and re-charged. From the very bottom of our hearts we Thank You for letting us be a little part of Maddi’s Butterflies. You have certainly made lots of happy memories for our family. It truly takes my breath away what you are giving to families whose children have been dealt the terrible Cancer Card. But please share in the knowledge you are giving our families a beautiful retreat, away from hospitals, doctors and nurses and instead the opportunity to all be together and have fun on tap.

“Thank you from the Orr’s x”

Vanessa, Anthony & Ruby Orr

Our son Mitchell (aged 10) had an 11 hour operation 6 months ago to remove 95% of a large brain tumour. When he was diagnosed we were devastated by the news and found it very difficult to come to terms with. We thought our lives were perfect and nothing could go wrong until we sat down and saw pictures of his MRI scan.

Mitchell has four siblings who have been effected by this. Mitchells eldest brother Callum has recently sat his GCSE’s and done so well considering! (4 A’s and 5 B’s). Our other children are 13, 7 and 5 and each have their own needs.

As a mum I’ve felt so guilty devoting the majority of my time to Mitchell and found it hard to focus on my other children’s needs. That has been one of the hardest things.

This break away helped that. The caravan is so beautiful and we have come back home relaxed and happy. We have wonderful memories to treasure and I mean that with all my heart.

We enjoyed our trip to Blackpool Zoo and thank you for the tickets. These things can be so expensive and financially things have been difficult because I’ve had so much unpaid leave from work to care for Mitch – but the mortgage still needs to be paid so its made things very hard.

Our family are all smiling because of what you have done. We are in awe of you all and your strength is truly amazing.

Natalie, Mark, Mitchell, Callum, Joel, Erin & Isabella xxxxxx

(p.s. thanks for the birthday gift and card Mitchell received when we arrived at the caravan for his 10th birthday)

Until it happens to you, there is no comprehension of how difficult it is when your child is diagnosed with cancer.
When we were given the opportunity of a much needed ‘break’ at Maddi’s caravan, we jumped at the chance.

From the moment we opened the door, we knew we were in for a lovely time. The caravan was like a show caravan. Immaculate and with everything you could need for your stay. A lot of thought has gone into this holiday home (and I do stress the word home) and even the weather didn’t spoil our stay as the caravan is so nice with lots to do, which meant we were more than happy to stay in. Every age has been catered for and the rain certainly doesn’t stop play!

Bedding, towels, hand wash (I think everywhere should provide this), kitchen utensils, cleaning products, iron etc. and a travel cot were all provided, the latter meaning we could fit more of what we needed in our boot!

The site itself is great with lots to do, see, eat and entertain.

In addition to this, tickets to Blackpool Zoo were provided which is a nice touch.

I would recommend Maddi’s caravan to everyone and would like to say a special “thank-you” to Samantha, who is on hand should you need anything and even took the time to return our toddler’s squeaky bear which we left behind.
I’m surprised Samantha had the time as Maddi’s Butterflies are a very hard-working charity who provide smiles to many children and the work they do with The Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital is invaluable.

Thank you once again. We had the most wonderful and treasured time.

Continued best wishes to Samantha and everyone involved with the charity and please keep up the good work. We admire your strength and determination and you are an inspiration.

Sara, Richard, Georg and Lucas.

To Sam,

A big thank you for the lovely break at Maddi’s Butterflies Caravan…It was beautiful!

Also thank you for the Blackpool Zoo tickets, we had a lovely day.

We really enjoyed the break, Mackenzie & Kameron had a fantastic time and seeing my little boy smile was so special.

We cant thank you enough, the break did us the world of good and making special memories.

All our love Wendy, Kameron & Mackenzie xx

Maddi’s Butterflies really supported Michael when he needed it, and kindly provided a Nintendo Switch with a Mario Cart game. Due to Michael’s condition, he spends a lot of time indoors and at home, and really enjoys playing video games. The Nintendo Switch has brought a massive smile to Michael’s face and gives him much entertainment when having to stay in Hospital or at home, due to being immunocompromised. Michael also loves the Oscar soft toy provided by Maddi’s Butterflies, and he takes it every where he goes including when he has to go to Hospital for treatment. Oscar gives Michael a lot of comfort.

Maddi’s Butterflies have therefore really supported Michael and our family and helped him have a better birthday this year.

Thank you Maddi’s Butterflies for bringing a smile to Michael’s face.

Haley (Mum)

Thank you so much to the wonderful Maddi’s Butterflies for helping us make the most amazing memories watching Matilda. We all had a magical time, bette than my wildest expectations. Keep up the fantastic work and thank you again.

Love Emily, Lou, Fleur and the rest of Team Burrows xxxx