Michelle Tolley was elated when she received an award at the prestigious Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards for her dedicated campaign efforts. Little did she know, another delightful surprise awaited her.
A stalwart campaigner at 60 years old, or as she humorously puts it, “59 plus one,” Michelle has tirelessly fought for justice for over 30,000 individuals affected by the NHS infected blood scandal, demanding accountability and answers.
Last year, Michelle, along with fellow campaigners Andrew Evans and Jason Evans, received a Special Recognition Award at the Pride of Britain Awards ceremony. During the event, while watching midwife Agnes Nisbett receive a well-deserved award, hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo announced a special treat for Agnes and all the winners – a cruise holiday sponsored by P&O Cruises, the new headline partner for the awards starting this year.
The joyous moment took Michelle by surprise as she recalls, “I was so happy for her. Then they said, ‘No, all of you have won a cruise holiday!'”
For Michelle, this unexpected reward came after years of battling health issues and advocating for fellow victims, pressing the government for action. Having contracted hepatitis C from a blood transfusion after the birth of her first child in 1987, Michelle endured 28 years of undiagnosed symptoms before finally receiving proper treatment.
Motivated by her anger and resolve, Michelle channeled her energy into running support groups, collaborating with the Hepatitis C Trust, and participating in the official government inquiry.
After years of hard work and health struggles, the prospect of a leisurely holiday was a welcomed respite for Michelle and her husband, Dean, who hadn’t traveled abroad since their wedding in 1984.
Booking a Canary Islands cruise holiday with P&O Cruises for May, Michelle mentioned considering renewing their vows during the trip. To her surprise, P&O Cruises went the extra mile, organizing a beautiful vow renewal ceremony for the couple, complete with flowers, photography, framed photos, and special meals.
Embarking on the Ventura cruise ship, Michelle, whose only prior sailing experience was as a child, marveled at the grandeur of the vessel, likening it to the excitement of Christmas morning. The couple made the most of their cruise experience, enjoying the onboard amenities, delectable cuisine, shopping, pools, theater shows, and exploring destinations like Madeira and the Canary Islands.
Their adventures included a memorable tour in Madeira, where they marveled at banana trees and enjoyed a guided exploration of the island by taxi. In Las Palmas, they embarked on a tuk-tuk tour, navigating the Old Town’s colorful buildings and soaking in the city’s history.
In Lisbon, their final destination, Michelle and Dean explored the city’s landmarks along the River Tagus on a coach and river cruise, enriching their holiday experience.
Overwhelmed by the royal treatment and warmth of the cruise staff, Michelle reflects, “We were treated like royalty, I felt like the queen of Ventura. It was all over too quickly. The food was great, and the staff were really lovely.”
Encouraging others to embark on a cruise holiday, Michelle enthuses, “If you’ve never been on a cruise holiday, I’d say do it. The facilities are fantastic, and everyone is so nice.”
