Katy Doherty, a Hays Travel Explorer franchisee, reconnected with a long-lost friend after decades apart due to a life-changing accident.
- In 1994, Dominic Hurley suffered a severe accident in Cyprus, leaving him in a coma for three months with a bleak prognosis.
- Fast forward 30 years, Doherty received an unexpected message from Hurley, who expressed his desire to return to Cyprus as part of his recovery.
- Their renewed friendship led to Doherty arranging a meaningful return trip to Cyprus for Hurley and his family.
- This initiative highlights the power of friendship and the potential for travel to aid in emotional and physical recovery.
Katy Doherty, currently owning a Hays Travel Explorer franchise, was unexpectedly contacted via social media by Dominic Hurley, an old university friend. Hurley, eager to revisit the place of a traumatic incident from three decades prior, found himself back in touch with Doherty, who had returned to the travel industry after a 12-year hiatus.
The connection between Doherty and Hurley dates back to their days as hotel management students, when Hurley experienced a moped accident in Cyprus. The incident was life-threatening, resulting in a coma that lasted three months, and doctors feared he might never recover fully. “Returning to Cyprus has been on my mind for years,” Hurley stated, underscoring his longing to turn a tragic chapter in his life into a positive family memory.
This reconnection occurred as Hurley, now a brain injury recovery support worker, was planning to visit Cyprus with his family. He has channelled much of his energy into raising awareness for helmet safety, amassing significant charitable contributions. Doherty seized this opportunity to orchestrate the trip, manifesting not only her professional dedication but also affirming the significance of their shared history.
Reflecting on the arrangement, Doherty expressed immense satisfaction with her decision to join Hays Travel. “It is so rewarding as people trust us with shaping forever memories, to reassure them and take away any stresses,” she remarked. The forthcoming journey is set to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Hurley’s accident.
Steven Reilly, head of Hays Travel’s Explorer Franchise, commended the occasion, highlighting the exemplary efforts of agents like Doherty. The forecast for Where to Next Travel’s financial performance in the upcoming year appears promising, with sales expected to surpass previous earnings, alongside potential franchise growth.
This story of reconnection exemplifies the profound impact of travel on personal growth and healing.
