It was a lifelong dream come true for Carolina, who spent a few wonderful, carefree days in the Hunter Valley with her husband, enjoying fine wines, good food and the beautiful countryside.

A dream that was a distraction from cancer treatments.

‘’On a daily basis the only thing we cancer patients think about is when is my next scan; when do I need to see the doctor; when is my next treatment; I am feeling well; I am not feeling well. But when you start thinking about and planning your dream, instead of telling my friends about my next scan, I was telling them that I am going up in a hot air balloon,’’ said Carolina.

‘’Being in a hot air balloon was magical. It gave me a feeling of freedom, it meant I was alive. I didn’t think about anything, I just enjoyed that peaceful moment.

So many thanks for letting me have that special moment that I will keep in my heart forever'' said Carolina.