11-year Stephen O' Reilly, who was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of bone cancer five years ago, was given the opportunity to get a birdseye view of the countryside when he was offered a special ride in a helicopter during the Shannon Air Display yesterday.
Stephen, who had his leg amputated as a result of the disease two years ago, was overjoyed to take part in the show which was attended by approximately 40,000 spectators.
An ardent fans of all things aircraft-related, the youngster's proud parents got in touch with Shannon Airport in the hopes they could make a day to remember for their brave boy, saying: "When we heard about the Shannon Air Display in local media we just took a chance and emailed the people here at the airport."
Only too happy to oblige, the airport arranged for Stephen to take a trip in a helicopter - an event which he relished from start to finish.
Chatting about the day, an overjoyed Stephen said: "It was the best day ever. I didn’t think an air show could be such fun."
Paying tribute to his son, Stephen's father, Michael, said: "He has been through an awful lot over the past six years, more than you could imagine. He has undergone chemotherapy and leg salvage surgery."
While elaborating on his son's condition, Michael insisted his child maintained a positive attitude throughout, saying: "He then had his leg amputated in 2013 but he has been unbelievably brave. He has just gotten on with it."
Reflecting on his son's trip in the helicopter, Michael couldn't hide his joy, explaining: "The helicopter trip was the highlight. Just to see the smile on his face as we sat in and got up in the sky."
Considering the toll Stephen's diagnosis has taken on both himself and the Reilly family, Michael insists events like these mean an incredible amount, saying: "Moments like that just give you back so much."
We're delighted to hear Stephen had such a fantastic day.
