That really was awesome.
There was also a certain amount of risk involved, but it seems to have turned out great in every way. Plenty of 5-year-olds I know would have dissolved in tears at some point on that extended excursion, but this kid seems to have been a good sport throughout, even though the whole thing was apparently kept a surprise for him.
And, his leukemia is in remission, so he has at least a chance of being able to look back on this even years from now, as an amazing fun experience. Man, I really hope so.