A groundbreaking initiative is bringing the world of adventure to children confined to hospital beds. With the “St. Jude Dream Adventures,” sick kids can experience personalized trips without ever leaving their hospital rooms, thanks to a 360-degree setup and live-streaming technology powered by Expedia.
Imagine the joy of swimming with colorful fish or galloping alongside wild horses in Argentina. For children facing serious health challenges, these experiences can feel like unattainable dreams. However, Expedia has teamed up with St. Jude Children’s Hospital to make these dreams a reality. The “St. Jude Dream Adventures” program creates tailored journeys for young patients, led by an Expedia guide who has personally overcome a serious illness. For instance, an Expedia team member named Luke, who triumphed over leukemia, recently took a young girl with a passion for horses on an unforgettable exploration across the Argentine plains.
The Heartfelt Stories Behind the Adventures
The heartfelt stories behind the adventures reveal the program’s significance. Emily, who guides a young boy on a monkey expedition, shared her motivation stems from having family members who have battled cancer. In another touching moment, a virtual dive in Mexico allowed a girl named Mia to share a remarkable underwater experience with her late friend, Hannah. “I had the best day,” Mia exclaimed about her St. Jude Dream Adventure. “I felt like I could escape and just enjoy myself.”
The real-time element of these adventures allows children to interact with their guides and special guests, bringing smiles and excitement as they virtually “touch” different objects and inquire about the wonders of various locations, including Cordoba and Talampaya Park in Argentina, Monkey Jungle in Florida, and the Great Maya Reef in Mexico.
Expedia’s Commitment to the Initiative
Expedia has released a series of videos showcasing these incredible experiences on their YouTube channel. The partnership with St. Jude is a long-standing commitment, and Vic Walia, Expedia’s senior director of brand marketing, emphasizes their dedication to expanding this initiative. “We’re in talks with St. Jude about creating a permanent installation to ensure more kids can join in on the adventures,” he said. “This is not just a temporary project.”
You can support the St. Jude Dream Adventures by donating your Expedia travel points, allowing even more children to take part in these extraordinary experiences. Check out the video below to see the adventures unfold!
Related Resources
For more insights on related topics, you can explore this blog post about home insemination kits here. Additionally, for comprehensive information about artificial insemination, visit Make A Mom. For those seeking in-depth resources on pregnancy and home insemination, UCSF’s Center offers excellent support.
In summary, the St. Jude Dream Adventures program is transforming the hospital experience for sick children, providing them with magical and interactive virtual journeys that bring joy and laughter, regardless of their medical challenges.