Emmett’s Genies CIO Charity was proud to bring the Year in a Day event to life at Ashmead School, creating a truly special experience for children with serious illnesses and their families.
The idea behind the day was simple but deeply meaningful: to give families the chance to enjoy the celebrations and milestones that illness, hospital stays, treatment or isolation may have taken away. Across 24 hours, the school was transformed into a journey through the calendar year, allowing children and their families to experience a whole year of special occasions in one unforgettable day.
From Valentine’s Day and Easter to Halloween and Christmas, every area of the event was designed to bring fun, surprise and wonder. Families enjoyed face-painting, crafts, games, classic cars, a Santa’s grotto, a spooky zone, a life-sized Bluey, Spider Man and dinosaurs with each activity helping to create precious moments and lasting memories.
The event also showed the very best of community spirit. Many amazing volunteers, schools, local businesses and supporters came together with generosity, care and imagination to make the day possible. Their support meant families could simply focus on being together, enjoying the experience and making memories in a safe, welcoming and uplifting environment.
For the children who joined us, the Year in a Day was far more than an event. It was a chance to celebrate, to laugh, to explore and to enjoy the kind of magical moments every child deserves. The phrase “bonus year” captured the heart of the day beautifully and reflected the mission of Emmett’s Genies: creating unique and wondrous experiences for critically ill children and their families.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make the event such a success. Your kindness, time and support helped turn a big idea into a day filled with joy, connection and unforgettable memories.