Astronaut Chris Hadfield creates magic for Limavady boy

A Limavady boy has received the perfect Christmas present from astronaut and author Chris Hadfield.
Astronaut and author Chris Hadfield with Hayden Geraghty from Limavady.Astronaut and author Chris Hadfield with Hayden Geraghty from Limavady.
Astronaut and author Chris Hadfield with Hayden Geraghty from Limavady.

Hayden Geraghty - who has autism - met Commander Chris Hadfield at Eason in Belfast on Tuesday where he was promoting his new book “The Darkest Dark” a new illustrated book about him as a boy and his dream of being an astronaut going to space.

The six-year-old was “over the moon” to meet the Canadian astronaut privately, and hear him read from his book.

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“The meeting was magical and Chris was so natural with Hayden. He treated Hayden beautifully and got his love for space and his dream of being an astronaut in the future. It was another amazing day for Hayden to cherish,” said Caroline.

Caroline believes since her son saw astronaut Tim Peake on television, the change in normally quiet little boy has been “unbelievable”. The Rossmar School student, who met Tim Peake this year, has developed a passion for all things space related.

Caroline described Chris Hadfield as “an amazing guy”.

“Hayden automatically connected with Chris, and for these big icons, to Hayden, to have spent time with him makes him feel on top of the world. He said to Chris ‘I don’t want to leave, can I stay with you all day?’. It was just amazing.”

Caroline believes sharing Hayden’s story helps creating awareness about autism.

Caroline paid heartfelt thanks to Eason for making the private meeting happen.