Imagine being able to swim with colorful fish or gallop alongside wild horses, all while lying in a hospital bed. For many seriously ill children, these thrilling experiences might seem like a fantasy. Fortunately, Expedia is turning these dreams into reality through an innovative program called “St. Jude Dream Adventures,” designed specifically for kids undergoing treatment at St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Using a state-of-the-art 360-degree virtual reality setup in the hospital, this initiative allows children to embark on personalized adventures from the comfort of their hospital room. By leveraging live-streaming technology from famous travel destinations, an Expedia employee—often someone who has personally faced a serious illness—acts as a tour guide, leading these brave kids on customized journeys. For example, an Expedia staff member named Alex, who triumphed over leukemia, takes a young girl fond of horses on an exhilarating ride across the Argentine plains.
The emotional impact of these adventures is profound. Many of the guides, like Mia, who leads a young boy on a monkey exploration, have family ties to cancer, making this project especially meaningful for them. In a touching moment, a girl named Lily, whose family has also battled the disease, was able to dive in the waters of Mexico through this program. “I had an amazing day,” she expressed. “I got to escape and kind of relax.”
The joy captured on the children’s faces is nothing short of heartwarming. The real-time interaction with guides and special guests allows the kids to ask questions and engage with the world around them, bringing destinations like Cordoba, Talampaya Park, Monkey Jungle in Florida, and the Great Maya Reef to life in a unique way.
Expedia has shared these incredible experiences through a series of videos on their YouTube channel. Their partnership with St. Jude’s is ongoing, with plans for a permanent installation in discussions. “This is not just a passing fancy,” stated Vic Walia, Expedia’s senior director of brand marketing, emphasizing the company’s commitment to ensure more children can benefit from these adventures.
You can contribute to this wonderful initiative by donating your Expedia travel points, allowing even more children to enjoy the St. Jude Dream Adventures. To explore these amazing journeys, check out the video linked below.
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In summary, the “St. Jude Dream Adventures” program is a groundbreaking initiative that brings joy and excitement to children facing serious health challenges, allowing them to embark on virtual journeys and experience the wonders of the world without leaving their hospital beds.
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