Thanks to Watches for ELA, families from ELA Belgium at Disneyland Paris

On 24 and 25 May 2025, thanks to the funds raised by ELA International during the 2024 ‘Watches for ELA’ auction, 16 families supported by ELA Belgium were able to escape the daily life with a leukodystrophy for a magical weekend at Disneyland Paris.

The aim of this respite was simple yet essential: to allow parents, siblings, spouses and children affected by leukodystrophy to enjoy a magical break together, far from the constraints of the illness. 57 people shared memorable moments, filled with emotion, laughter and wonder. Moments suspended in time, where the pressures of daily life gave way to the joy of being together, in a setting designed for dreaming.

As soon as they arrived at the Marvel Hotel, the families were given a warm welcome over coffee and croissants… in the company of a superhero! After settling into their rooms and exploring the hotel’s facilities, the participants enjoyed a meal together, before setting off to explore the two Disney parks at their leisure. Come evening, everyone attended the famous night-time parade. Back at the hotel, a surprise awaited the children and patients in their rooms: a soft toy to help prolong the magic of the day just a little longer.

The following day, everyone was able to enjoy the attractions, shows and meet-and-greets with iconic Disney characters at their own pace.

This magical interlude served as a reminder to everyone of just how vital it is to offer moments of respite to families coping with illness.