In a touching festive surprise, a dedicated NHS neonatal nurse has been rewarded with a complimentary holiday after years of sacrificing her own Christmas celebrations to care for vulnerable newborns.
The Ultimate Christmas Sacrifice
Sarah Alcock, a 35-year-old from Oakwood, Derby, has repeatedly volunteered to work on December 25th, supporting her colleagues in the busy emergency neonatal unit at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre. This year holds particular significance, as it marks the first Christmas for her eight-month-old daughter, who was born prematurely at just 25 weeks, weighing a mere 1lb 12oz. Despite this, Sarah once again chose to prioritise her team and the tiny patients in their care.
Her proud husband, Dave, who secretly nominated her for the holiday, did not hold back in his praise. "Sarah is a hero," he stated. "Her work doesn't stop just because it's Christmas, so she has to go there regardless of the date."
A Nation of Festive Season Workers
The generous break was awarded by easyJet Holidays, which also commissioned revealing research into work commitments over the festive period. The study found that a staggering 15% of all UK adults – equivalent to 10 million people – will spend time away from loved ones this Christmas due to their jobs.
Sarah was not alone in her surprise. She was joined by NHS nurse Nicky Starkowitz, 46, and care home manager Niccii Gillett, 41, from Bisley, who were also recognised for their dedication. Nicky's year has been extraordinarily challenging, with her four-year-old son Raffi diagnosed with a rare, aggressive brain cancer in March, followed by her own breast cancer diagnosis in August.
"With everything going on this year we haven't managed to get away or get the opportunity to do anything as a family together," said Nicky's husband, Neil.
Admiration for Key Workers Peaks at Christmas
The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults uncovered further insights into the festive season's impact. It revealed that 28% of those who forfeit family time feel they haven't had a proper break this year. Among parents, 42% have missed multiple Christmas Days, while 22% felt they had little to no choice but to work.
The public's admiration for key workers shines brightest at this time of year. Professions like nurses, paramedics, care workers, and delivery drivers were among the most respected. The research showed 23% of people gift their local postal workers, and 22% do the same for binmen.
The festive spirit also encourages generosity, with six in ten people feeling more giving and 51% more likely to compliment others. Furthermore, 31% make a point of checking in on their neighbours.
Matt Callaghan, chief operating officer at easyJet Holidays, said: "At Christmas especially, we're reminded how many people quietly put others first, often sacrificing precious time with their own families. Our key workers do this year after year, and our communities simply wouldn't function without them."
"This is easyJet holidays' way of saying thank you - giving a few of these Christmas heroes the chance to properly step away, rest, and spend quality time together. It's about recognising the people who give so much, especially at this time of year."
