Young Edinburgh boy living with fast-growing and rare brain tumour given 'special wish' of visiting New York
The trip included a Broadway show as well as a special meet-and-greet with the New York Police Department’s K9 unit
A young boy from Edinburgh who is living with a rare and fast-growing brain tumour has been given the chance to make memories to last a lifetime with a trip to the United States.
Mason Mackenzie jetted off to New York City for the very special week-long holiday alongside his mum and gran, courtesy of charity When You Wish Upon A Star.
The family’s experience began at Edinburgh Airport when they were met by team members of airline JetBlue, who helped to make travel to the United States as seamless as possible.
Upon landing at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, Mason and his family attended The Lion King on Broadway, as well as enjoying a sing-along at the famous Ellen’s Stardust Diner.
Their trip also included taking in the NYC skyline from Top Of The Rock, dining at STK Steakhouse and the Jellycat Diner, visiting the famous Stoop and the City and a special meet-and-greet with the New York Police Department’s (NYPD) K9 unit.
Charity When You Wish Upon A Star gives children living with life-threatening conditions the chance for their wishes to come true and give them and their families a chance to make everlasting memories.
Mason's family said: “Thank you, When You Wish Upon a Star, for turning dreams into memories we will cherish forever.
“The magic you created for Mason with his special wish to New York brought so much joy and magic after such a difficult journey, that we are still trying to navigate with uncertainty for what his future holds.
“After everything he has been through, seeing his joy and wonder was priceless. Thank you for giving us memories filled with hope and happiness that will stay in our hearts always.
“We are beyond grateful for the kindness, love and wish magic that made this incredible experience possible.”
Gordon Robertson, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer at Edinburgh Airport, said: "We were delighted to play a small part in making Mason's wish come true, and we're so pleased he has been able to visit New York and create special memories with his mum and gran.
"It's always incredibly rewarding when we can work with partners like JetBlue to help turn a dream into reality. These are the moments that truly matter, and the memories created will stay with the family forever."
Judith King, wish coordinator at When You Wish Upon a Star, added: "Creating Mason's New York Wish was a true team effort. From the moment he arrived at Edinburgh Airport to his final flight home from JFK, every organisation involved wanted to give him something truly special.
"Whether it was flight deck experiences with the JetBlue crew, stepping onto the stage at The Lion King, singing at Ellen's Stardust Diner or meeting the NYPD K9 Unit, every experience was planned with generosity, kindness and genuine care.
"At the heart of every wish is a simple but powerful belief — every child deserves joy, hope and the chance to create precious memories with the people they love most.
“Mason's wish gave him and his family the opportunity to be completely in the moment, to laugh together and experience the magic of New York.
“We are incredibly grateful to every individual and organisation who helped make this dream come true. You will forever be part of Mason's Wish story and our Wish family."