United Airlines Fantasy Flight - Newark Liberty International Airport

On Saturday, December 9, the LCC Comfort Dogs were at Newark Liberty International Airport to join United Airlines volunteers for their Fantasy Flight, a day for seriously ill children and their families to experience the joy of flying to the North Pole. 

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Abraham and Beloved (Trinity - Hicksville, New York), Amos (Our Savior’s Way - Ashburn, Virginia) and Kezia (Emmanuel – Baltimore, Maryland) and their teams were present to BE THERE and help make holiday wishes come true for more than 75 children and their families as they arrived at the North Pole for a day of cheer. 

They were greeted by Santa and Mrs. Clause and a cast of characters, princesses and elves, along with the comfort dogs and holiday music for a festive party.

As the children and families visited with the comfort dogs, there were many smiles that reflected the love that the comfort dog teams provided.  Each child received a Mini Stuffed comfort dog to remember that special feeling of comfort. 

 While petting the dogs, a father shared how happy he was to see his child so delighted after facing many troubling days. 

Another family was moved by the calmness of the comfort dogs who were able to reach up to their child’s wheelchair so that the child could pet and feel the soft fur. The family had not been able to have this experience since leaving their country and their pet four years ago.

Many of the United volunteers remembered the comfort dog teams who attended the last Fantasy Flight held before the pandemic and they were so excited to see them again.  One flight attendant explained that the comfort dogs and the interactions they witnessed on that day was the inspiration for them to become a foster who is now raising guide dog puppies for service to others.

After a day of celebration and joy, the volunteers all gathered behind the band in a parade through the entire terminal where travelers and staff all stopped to watch, video, and clap or wave in celebration.  This simple act reached so many with the message of joy, hope and love.   

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