Sam Shaw and his family were treated to a VIP trip to the Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk after being nominated in a competition run by Thwaites Empire Theatre.
Sam Shaw (aged 6) from Hoddlesden enjoyed the trip with friend Evie-Grace Alemanno and Sam’s Mum and Dad, Christine and Carl. They had the opportunity to meet the cast of pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at the theatre before the matinee performance to a packed house. They enjoyed sweets and treats and after the performance visited Pizza Hut in Blackburn, when Simple Simon (Callum Arnott) from the pantomime joined them to add some extra Christmas fun.
Sam, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a highly aggressive form of childhood cancer, in 2013 was nominated by friends and healthcare professionals for his positive attitude and bravery over recent years. Sam, who underwent intensive treatment at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital as well as treatment in the USA after many local people rallied round and helped raise funds to help Sam receive the vital treatment in America.
Sam still has regular check-ups and the great news is that there is now no evidence of disease and, although Sam’s health will be continually monitored, after the support of the local community, Sam can get back to the business of being a young lad enjoying school and family life.
Christine Shaw, Sam’s Mum, said, “We would like to say a massive thank you to the team at Thwaites Empire Theatre, we had a fantastic day and evening. We thoroughly enjoyed the pantomime and we were looked after so well. Having Simple Simon at Pizza Hut made the event so special and Sam had a truly amazing time. Sam couldn’t stop talking about the whole experience.”
Michael Berry, Chairman at Thwaites Empire Theatre, said, “It was a privilege to welcome Sam and his family to the Theatre and we are so pleased they had such a great time. I would like to thank Pizza Hut, Sugar Rush on Blackburn Market and local company Square Cactus for supporting this event and for helping to make it an exciting day for Sam.”