A BRAVE four-year-old who has endured a gruelling few months battling cancer was given a welcome break from treatment with his family as Whiteleys Retreat emerged from lockdown.
Little Caleb Stirrat and his loving family from Clydebank arrived to the Retreat earlier this month as lockdown restrictions lifted.
The stunning Alloway Retreat for children going through treatment for cancer or other life limiting illness was able to welcome families back for the first time since March.
Caleb (one of triplets) had tumours removed from his brain in recent months and is health is deteriorating drastically.
The inspirational boy is now undergoing six weeks of radiotherapy after making memories at Whiteleys which his family say them escape their troubles.
Caleb his mum Karen and dad Andrew, and his two sisters of the same age Poppy and Alyssia were also joined by his grandparents and aunt who are rallying round him.
The Stirrats were full of praise for the Retreat.
In a note left by the family, they said: “Whiteleys you are amazing place after months being in lockdown due to Covid and then receiving the devastating news of Caleb’s relapse you welcomed us with open arms.
“The moment you arrive at Whiteleys you can see the attention to detail is key here.
“The house is well equipped and the surroundings are idyllic – you soon forget your troubles.”
The family visited Heads of Ayr farm park and enjoyed a traditional chippy, whilst taking in the beautiful surrounding at Whiteleys and seeing the animals.
They added: “We now feel refreshed and ready to begin the next few difficult months ahead.
“Thank you for giving us the most perfect breakaway.”
Maxine Allan, CEO for Whiteleys said: “We were overjoyed to welcome our first family back to Whiteleys since lockdown.”
“The family was in desperate need of respite and to spend quality time together.
“With restrictions lifted, they were also very excited to have their grandparents and aunt join them – to help build resilience as a unit for the next stage of Caleb’s journey.”
The Retreat will be operating on a reduced capacity with one family per week.
Any families who wish to enquired about a break can email hello@whiteleysretreat.com.
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