A mother had always wanted to go to Disneyland in California, USA, and decided to go during her children’s term times — but she only went with her husband as they couldn’t afford to take their children
In a twist of fate, a mum from Bristol has jetted off to Disneyland California without her kids because the costs during school holidays are sky-high.
Sarah Reid, 44, a dedicated author and fundraiser, has longed to visit the magical park and finally seized the chance when she received a grant from the Danny Did foundation, an epilepsy charity. The grant, however, only stretched to cover Sarah and her hubby Mark, 49, leaving their children Damian, 20, and Lauren, 12, at home.
The couple made the most of their week in the Golden State, not only exploring Disneyland but also attending an epilepsy conference. Sarah shared her mixed emotions: “It’s going to be the first time that my husband and I are travelling without the kids – it feels bittersweet.”
She added: “I’ve always wanted to go – I’m sad my children can’t join me but they are only paying for me and my partner to go.” Aware of the hefty fines for taking kids out of school, Sarah remarked: “You can’t take children out of school without facing the financial repercussions of missed education. “
She explained the financial dilemma further: “The grant from the charity could only cover so much of our trip, and the costs are incredibly high when traveling out of the school holiday period.” The cost of flouting school attendance rules would be a steep £100 per child each day.
Despite the joy of visiting Disneyland, Sarah couldn’t help but feel the sting of the situation: “I’ve always wanted to visit Disneyland, especially since the charity I’m working with is based there, but the expenses are huge.” Sarah battles several health issues including epilepsy, OCD, borderline, and personality disorder, making the trip all the more significant.
Sarah has been grappling with health challenges since her early years, starting when she was diagnosed with epilepsy at the tender age of seven. Due to this, she’s had to depend on a variety of powerful medications to manage her condition.
She revealed: “I take nearly 20 tablets a day to manage my epilepsy, and I’ve had to learn how to manage my triggers, like stress, lack of sleep, or illness.” The ongoing battle with her epilepsy has been tough; before undergoing brain surgery in 2016, Sarah faced up to five seizures daily. “My epilepsy used to be much worse. Prior to having brain surgery in 2016, I was having five seizures a day,” she explained.
Fortunately, the surgery significantly improved her condition, but vigilance remains crucial. “The surgery has really reduced them, but I still need to stay on top of my health every day.”
Despite her health hurdles, Sarah is an emblem of resilience and dedication, actively engaging in advocacy work and raising an impressive £18,000 for various charities, including those dedicated to epilepsy. Her commitment to making a difference led her to fly to California on November 14, 2024, to attend a conference held by an epilepsy charity, entrusting her children to her parents’ care while away.
“My parents are looking after my daughter while I travel. My eldest, Damian, is 20, and goes to Cheltenham University and my youngest Lauren, 12, will be looked after by my kind parents for the week. I get anxiety, and crowded places can send my anxiety through the roof. ” Thus, “Traveling during term time helps a little, as it’s usually less busy, but it’s still a lot to manage,” Sarah said.
Beyond personal battles, Sarah’s commitment extends to fostering awareness about epilepsy and supporting other families facing similar trials.
Sarah said: “I never want anyone to feel as though they’re alone in their journey -that’s what keeps me going knowing that I can make a difference, even if it’s just for one person.”
She received assistance from trained airport staff on her flight to America, who drove her to the gate. She added: “It’s comforting to know that I have that support, especially when traveling with a condition like epilepsy. My journey isn’t easy, but I know it’s important. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can help others who are going through similar struggles.”
