Michelle Tolley was elated when she received recognition at the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards for her advocacy work. However, an additional surprise awaited her. The 60-year-old, who humorously refers to herself as “59 plus one,” has been a dedicated advocate seeking justice for over 30,000 individuals affected by the NHS infected blood scandal.
Last year, Michelle, along with fellow campaigners Andrew Evans and Jason Evans, received a Special Recognition Award at the Pride of Britain ceremony. During the event, while watching midwife Agnes Nisbett accept an award, hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo announced that the new headline sponsor, P&O Cruises, would be gifting a cruise holiday to all 2024 winners.
Michelle recalled her joy for Agnes before realizing that she, too, was among the recipients of the surprise holiday. This delightful gesture came after years of battling health issues and tirelessly supporting fellow victims while holding the government accountable.
Having contracted hepatitis C from a blood transfusion in 1987 after giving birth to her first child, Michelle endured 28 years of suffering before receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment. Determined to turn her anger into something positive, she spearheaded a support group, collaborated with the Hepatitis C Trust, and testified at the official government inquiry.
After decades of hard work, the prospect of a well-deserved vacation was a welcomed surprise for Michelle and her husband, Dean, who had not traveled abroad since their marriage in 1984. They decided to book a Canary Islands cruise for May after Michelle expressed interest in renewing their vows.
P&O Cruises not only facilitated the vow renewal but also went above and beyond by arranging a beautiful ceremony, complete with flowers, photographs, framed memories, and exquisite meals. The couple set sail on the Ventura ship, marking Michelle’s first significant sailing experience since childhood.
The cruise provided an array of activities, including indulging in sumptuous cuisine, exploring on-board amenities, and taking in the entertainment offerings. Their ports of call in Madeira and the Canary Islands offered unique experiences, from scenic tours to local adventures.
Their trip culminated in Lisbon, where they enjoyed a coach and river cruise, discovering the city’s landmarks and soaking in the picturesque views along the River Tagus. Overwhelmed by the exceptional treatment and warm hospitality, Michelle described feeling like royalty aboard Ventura and expressed eagerness to repeat the cruise experience.
Reflecting on their holiday, Michelle praised the fantastic facilities and the friendly staff, encouraging others to embark on a cruise adventure. She emphasized the enjoyable atmosphere and top-notch service, underscoring the unforgettable memories created during their voyage.