The homeworking agency set a goal of selling 150 cabins onboard Disney Magic during its UK season this summer – making a £10 donation from each booking to fund a cabin for one of Reuben’s Retreat’s families to sail on the ship.
After exceeding the target in a matter of days and “after much careful thought” the gift of the two-night cruise was given to eight-year-old Molly, who has Batten disease, and her family.
Reuben’s Retreat founder, Nicola Graham, said: “During a pandemic, when travel has taken such a hit, to be gifted such a wonderful experience is testament to the special relationship between Travel Counsellors and Reuben’s Retreat.
“For this family, it’s about far more than the gift of a cruise. Offering this opportunity to them has allowed them to create magical memories which will last a lifetime.”
Graham said that on top of helping Molly "make fantastic memories”, the cruise had also helped Reuben’s Retreat “truly engage” with her family.
“The conversations around the cruise opened a great dialogue between [her] mum and our support team and our follow-up led to some great interaction,” she said.
“[Molly’s] mum has accessed more support and Molly has visited the retreat to enjoy a swim and some sensory play. This has been a great gift, because as well as the cruise, we will now be able to support Molly and mum through the toughest of times ahead.”
Molly’s mum said the “whole experience was fantastic and Molly absolutely loved it”.
“Molly is the epitome of strength and resilience, and we are so grateful and blessed to be able to experience this and make special memories,” she added.
Janet Whittingham, head of cruise at Travel Counsellors, said: “Disney Cruise Line really does create magic at sea and I, along with everyone in the Travel Counsellors community, am delighted Molly and her family were able to create magical moments to treasure forever.”
