Blimp ride uplifts young cancer patient

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Seven-year-old McKenzie Smith has been battling a deadly disease almost half of life. She was just four when she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer called neuroblastoma.

"Some times I'm grumpy when I don't feel good, and sometimes I want to go outside and play," McKenzie said.

McKenzie felt well enough Sunday to take a ride in a blimp.

The Wind Creek Casino provided the air ship to raise awareness about the Believe in Tomorrow National Children's Foundation.

Pilot Bret Vietz took McKenzie, her grandmother, and cousin over the city.

"The ride's more like a boat on the water. They're going to get to see a lot, because we've got lots of windows around there," the pilot said.

It something McKenzie has always dreamed about.

"I've always wanted to ride in a blimp, and I've always wanted to be high in the sky," she said.

Lynn Booth said it was treat for the family, and especially McKenzie.

"She's hasn't gotten to do a whole lot, because she's been really sick, but she relapsed in July, so we've been trying to do a little bit of things. She's had some treatments so we were real excited when they let us know about it," Booth said.

Some days are rough for little McKenzie, but her grandmother said Sunday was truly uplifting.

The Believe In Tomorrow Foundation provides long term hospital care and respite housing for families with critically ill children.