Mum left overwhelmed as daughter's Disneyland dream becomes reality

A mum has been left overwhelmed by the response of Fakenham as people from across the town transforms it into Disneyland to celebrate her daughter’s birthday.

Rebecca Gooderson is the mum of Elsie, who on August 4 celebrated her fifth birthday. Miss Gooderson wanted to make the day a celebration as doctors said there was a chance she might not reach that age.

The family hoped to go to Disneyland to celebrate, but sadly plans were scuppered by the pandemic and the fact they are all still shielding as Elsie suffers from Kagami Ogata Syndrome (UPD14 Paternal), a condition which means her ribs never fully developed and are the shape of coat hangers. They hook around her lungs, crushing them.

The 26-year-old then turned to people in the town, to help transform it into the magic kingdom, and they did not disappoint.

“We're so totally overwhelmed right now, we can't believe the effort,” she said.

“Elsie is so happy she thinks she's just been to Disneyland and everyone was amazing.”

From Woodspring House to schools and shops, everyone in the market town was involved in some way. 

Almost every shop window was decorated with banners, and balloons hung proudly from shop fronts displaying happy birthday messages to the girl.

The scene along Market Place was like something from a Disney classic, and the family drove in a vehicle fit for royalty, with people lined along the street to greet, cheer and send their wishes.

The fancy dress did not disappoint, with full mascot costumes being worn by people. The likes of Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy, along with Maui from Moanna and the cast of Toy Story appeared in the town.

“It is like wearing a sleeping bag, but it is all worth it to make her day,” said Mary Leeder, who along with Taylor James, Victoria Neil and Siven Cook brought the Pixar classic to life.

“It is something really small, but for her, it will mean the whole world and will make her smile,” Mr Cook said.

Outside the Red Lion Lounge, manager Teresa Haughey, joined by two T-rex and singers, felt quite emotional seeing the crowd gathered.

“Seeing the town like this, you really see how people come together for something so important. It is just so amazing to see.”