Carnival Pride’s inaugural cruise from Baltimore that departed April 27 was extra special for one family, the Sherrards from Martinsburg, W.V., who were the guests of honor compliments of Carnival Cruise Lines and the Casey Cares Foundation, which provides uplifting programs with a special touch to enhance the lives of critically ill children and their families throughout the Mid-Atlantic states.

            This was the first vacation for the family since their daughter passed away from a brain tumor a year ago, providing a much-needed respite from a very challenging time in their lives. 

             Parents Jima and Steven Sherrard and their son Ryan – who celebrated his ninth birthday on board — truly enjoyed their vacation aboard the Carnival Pride and the ship’s employees went “all out” to make sure that their six-day getaway was special, relaxing and memorable.          

            The family is pictured here with Carnival’s mascot, “Fun Ship” Freddy, during Ryan’s birthday celebration on board.

            The 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride debuted from Baltimore April 27, becoming the first cruise ship to sail from the port on a year-round basis.