Michelle Tolley received recognition at the prestigious Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards for her dedicated advocacy efforts, marking a pinnacle moment in her career. However, another delightful surprise awaited her.
Described as “59 plus one,” the resilient 60-year-old has been a stalwart activist, championing the cause of over 30,000 individuals affected by the NHS infected blood scandal, striving for justice and resolution.
In the previous year, Michelle, in company with fellow campaigners Andrew Evans and Jason Evans, was honored with a Special Recognition Award at the Pride of Britain event.
During the awards ceremony, while Michelle stood among other awardees, witnessing midwife Agnes Nisbett being presented with a cruise holiday by the new awards partner, P&O Cruises, hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo made a stunning revelation. They announced that each winner, including Michelle, would also receive the same luxurious prize in 2024.
Reflecting on the moment, Michelle expressed her joy, recounting, “I was so happy for her. Then they said, ‘No, all of you have won a cruise holiday!'”
This unexpected and delightful turn of events came after years of health struggles and unwavering commitment to supporting fellow victims and holding authorities accountable.
Michelle contracted hepatitis C through a blood transfusion after the birth of her first child in 1987. Enduring 28 years of sickness and fatigue, her symptoms were initially overlooked by a physician before she received a proper diagnosis, followed by a year-long wait for treatment.
Driven by anger and a sense of purpose, Michelle channeled her energy into managing support groups for affected individuals, collaborating with the Hepatitis C Trust, and contributing to the official government inquiry.
Following her tireless efforts, the prospect of a well-deserved holiday was a welcomed respite for Michelle and her husband, Dean, who had not traveled abroad since their marriage in 1984.
Planning a cruise to the Canary Islands with P&O Cruises, Michelle hinted at renewing their wedding vows during their journey. To her surprise, the cruise line made arrangements for the vow renewal, providing a memorable experience complete with flowers, photography sessions, framed pictures, and special dining moments.
Embarking on the Ventura cruise ship, Michelle, whose only prior sailing experience was at the age of nine, was captivated by the grandeur of the vessel, describing it as akin to the excitement of Christmas morning.
During their cruise, Michelle and Dean indulged in the ship’s amenities, relishing the diverse dining options, shopping opportunities, pool facilities, and entertainment offerings, alongside exploring picturesque destinations like Madeira and the Canary Islands.
While onshore in Madeira, a spontaneous decision led the couple on a guided tour by a local taxi driver named Manuel. Their adventures continued in Las Palmas with a tuk-tuk tour, providing them with a humorous yet enlightening experience exploring the historic Old Town.
Their final stop in Lisbon included a coach and river cruise, offering them a comprehensive view of the city and its iconic landmarks along the River Tagus.
Enthralled by their cruise experience, Michelle and Dean are eager to repeat the journey, highlighting the exceptional treatment, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality they received aboard the Ventura.
Reflecting on her cruise holiday, Michelle encourages others to embark on a similar adventure, praising the fantastic facilities and the kindness exhibited by the cruise staff, concluding, “If you’ve never been on a cruise holiday, I’d say do it. The facilities are fantastic, and everyone is so nice.”