Welcome to Dream-A-Way!
12th March 2008
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Two generations of an Exeter family will be able to enjoy a holiday together at Europe's biggest caravan park next month thanks to the city-based charity Dream-A-Way. |
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Ralph Bailey, 80, his wife Marina, 73, from Heavitree, and their son Paul, 51, and his 48-year-old wife Jennifer, from Kings Heath, off Rydon Lane, will be taking a two-week break at their favourite seaside resort in Wales.
Jennifer said the family desperately needed time to get away and relax this year but were unable to afford it,
until they heard about the charity.
Dream-A-Way provides holidays and day trips for disabled or seriously ill people of all ages from across the South West.
It has paid £1,040 for the family's stay in two caravans.
The Baileys are a close-knit family but have their share of difficulties to overcome. Marina has heart disease and needs a mobility car, and Ralph has a heart condition treated with medication.
Their son Paul is their carer and his wife Jennifer suffers from arthritis and back problems.
They are overjoyed at being able to enjoy a stay with Parkdean Holidays, at Trecco Bay caravan park, Porthcawl in South Wales.
It is Europe's largest caravan park with facilities such as a 1,200-seater Showdome.
"It's beautiful there," said Jennifer.
"We have been there before and it was lovely but we couldn't afford to go again last year.
"A disabled friend mentioned Dream- A-Way and put us in touch with them.
"We couldn't believe it when the charity offered to pay for our holiday.
"We're very pleased with Dream- A-Way and think they do a good job."
Jennifer said the holiday will be a precious time for the family to relax together.
"We are looking forward to going to the clubhouse and the beach and going out and about," she said.
"It's a friendly place and flat, so it's easy for us to get around.
"It will be a nice break for my mother-in-law and father-in-law and it will be relaxing for my husband,
because he usually looks after us all when we are at home."
Jeff Merrett, chairman of Dream-A-Way, said:
"We are delighted that we are able to help the Bailey family stay at their favourite holiday spot".
"It's all thanks to our generous supporters that we can make this happen."
The Echo has previously reported how Dream-A-Way raised more than £120,000 in 2007
to provide holidays for people who truly deserve a break.
Story courtesy of the Express & Echo