Funstation Milton Keynes hosted a heartwarming VIP Day at Xscape last week (29/05) in collaboration with Rays of Sunshine children’s charity, brightening the lives of seriously ill children.
This special event was attended by four wish children—John, Eden, Harry, and Daisy-May—and their families. The day was filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable experiences.
The wish children were treated like a VIP for the day, Funstation even had the red carpet out ready for them when they arrived. The wish families enjoying a variety of activities, including arcade games like basketball, air hockey, VR and the dance mat at Funstation, adventure golf at Volcano Falls and bowling gifted by Hollywood Bowl.
When asked about her favorite part of the day, Daisy-May exclaimed, "Everything! We've done some basketball, golf, dance machines, and won prizes. I would definitely come back again!" Wish child, John said: “My favourite part of the day was the adventure golf at Volcano Falls, it was lots of fun and I really liked the courses, they were challenging but not too tricky”.
Other families echoed her enthusiasm, expressing their gratitude for the event, especially after such a challenging year. One family mentioned, "The day has been incredible, thank you so much for organising it." Most of the families even donated their prize points from the day back to be converted into wishes for other families.
“The feedback we’ve received so far has been incredibly positive and heartwarming, particularly from Rays of Sunshine and the wish families. We’ve always been a great supporter of the children’s charity and it was amazing to see families, create beautiful memories together” James Miller, CEO of Funstation.
The event had great support from the local community, including local MPs, Xscape representatives, local media outlets and the Bacta Trade Association for the amusement industry. With a special surprise appearance from Sunny, the beloved mascot, bringing even more joy to the day.
The Mayor of Milton Keynes, Councillor Marie Bradburn attended the day and helped Funstation present a cheque of 5,000 to Rays Of Sunshine’s CEO, Dan Assor. Marie met some of the wish families and played games with the children, adding a special touch to the day. The Mayor shared her experience, saying, "I've played football—not very well, scored about 4 goals, played some basketball, had some great food at Volcano Falls and met the wish families. Big shout out to Rays of Sunshine; they are an amazing organisation doing wonderful work in Milton Keynes but also throughout the UK. I am proud to be the Mayor of Milton Keynes, with such an amazing charity at our doorstep. Thank you so much for inviting me."
Amy Chambers, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Rays of Sunshine, states, "I'm so grateful to be here today. Funstation has been supporting us for over a decade. Today, we've had a VIP day for some of our very special children and their families. They've had the best day ever—lots of food, unlimited arcade games, adventure golf, and other activities. We’ve had so much positive feedback, it’s events like this that means so much to them. Their living with a very serious illness, it's important for them to enjoy these experiences. Knowing that they are inclusive and accessible and they’ve have got no worries on the day. Thank you so much to Funstation for making the event happen!”
She adds; “A special thanks to James Miller, owner of Funstation, an incredible supporter and one of our biggest ambassadors."
John Bollom, Bacta President, said, "Bacta is immensely proud to have a long-term partnership with Rays of Sunshine. The event at Funstation in Milton Keynes was inspiring. It demonstrated the positive difference that Rays of Sunshine can make to the lives of seriously ill young people and their families. It also showcased a superb family entertainment sector which brings joy to the children who visit".
Funstation would like to extend a HUGE thank you to everyone who helped make the day special. Special thanks go to the Mayor of MK, Marie Bradburn; Former MP, Ben Everitt; CEO of Rays of Sunshine, Dan Assor; Sophie Lockyer and Ed from Xscape MK for their incredible support; and Hollywood Bowl for donating bowling games. Appreciation goes to the Bacta Trustees, including President John Bollom, for their support. A big thanks to the local media, including MKFM and Destination MK, for their coverage, as well as My Milton Keynes Bid, and of course, Sunny the mascot for making an appearance.
Overall, the VIP Day at Funstation was a great success, filled with smiles, laughter, and a sense of community. It was a day that the wish children and their families will always remember. To those looking to get involved in donating and helping Rays Of Sunshine grant more magical wishes, you can visit Funstation and play on the games and gift any unused prize points to the children’s charity.
