SPOTLIGHT YOUR STORIES


Nicola and Mike Graham (right) with son Isaac and Reuben’s Retreat supporters


staff volunteer days at the retreat. While much is made of the charity’s enormous successes, less is said about the challenges involved. The retreat still needs £750,000 to complete the next three building phases and £2.5 million to complete the whole project. Nicola says: “We only shout about


our successes, but the truth is it’s been a big, daunting task. After we raised a million [pounds], fundraising took a significant dip. Year three was tough.” There have been many personal highlights for Nicola, from visiting 10 Downing Street to winning an Inspirational Women award. But it’s seeing the difference it


“It’s not that simple for all families


to get away, in particular because accessible accommodation for poorly children is nigh on impossible to find.” The travel industry remains a key


supporter of the charity, which raised £1 million within 23 months. The largest donation, £150,000, was from Thomas Cook Children’s Charity but firms also help in other ways, from cake sales to


makes to families’ lives that really makes it worthwhile, she says. And on a personal level, the charity has also helped. Nicola adds: “It’s given me a drive like nothing I’ve ever known in my work career. I can’t wait to make more of a difference.” reubensretreat.org


TIMELINE


August 21, 2012 Reuben dies.


Reuben’s Retreat set up August 23


January 2013 Gains charity status


October 2013 Supports its first family in need


April 2014


Buys property in Derbyshire


August 2014 Fundraising: £1m


August 2017 Total people supported: 470


children and adults


17 August 2017 travelweekly.co.uk 37


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