A POORLY child from Deeside had her wildest dreams come true.

Nine-year-old Bonnie Lloyd, who suffers from cystic fibrosis, swam with dolphins in Florida thanks to a kind-hearted gesture from a charity.

The Connah’s Quay youngster was diagnosed at birth and needs daily medication to combat her illness.

Symptoms include regular chest infections, a troublesome cough and poor weight gain.

There are more than 8,500 sufferers in the UK.

Her mum Toni told the Leader: “Bonnie takes every day in her stride. She is a very brave girl and the way that she copes with her difficulties is far beyond her nine years.”

Bonnie went to Disneyworld to frolick with the friendly creatures and meet her favourite characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

The trip was organised by Starlight Children's Foundation for children with serious and terminal illnesses.

Toni and stepfather Paul were also treated to a break in the resort.

Toni said: “We had the most amazing time.

“We are used to spending time one-to-one to her with when she is feeling unwell so it was really wonderful for us to get some special time with her when she was having fun and we could really enjoy each other’s company.

“You always read stories about the difference it makes for children with conditions like Bonnie's to swim with dolphins but it is hard to believe it until you have seen it.

“She has been totally transformed by the trip and since we returned home she has been a ball of happy energy.

“Even her school and her friends have remarked on how uplifted she seems. It really was a magical wish fulfilled for all of us.”

Starlight also organise parties, activity days and trips to the pantomime.

See www.starlight.org.uk or call 020 7262 2881 to nominate a brave child like Bonnie.