A Penistone woman has overcome adversity - including meningitis - to get a dream job in Majorca.
Niki Sampson, 28, jets off to the sun in April to her new role as a children's representative for Thomas Cook.
Niki studied and qualified in childcare at Northern College but three years ago was struck down with meningitis.
A year ago she also had surgery for another condition called hyperhidrosis, which causes abnormally increased perspiration.
"It's a very unpleasant condition, and I never would have applied for this job if I hadn't had the operation," said Niki.
The illness hit Niki's confidence while job-hunting and she went to A4e Work Programme for help.
After she got an invitation to a selection day at Thomas Cook, Niki had a thorough preparation session with Andrea Glykofrydis, the A4e office sales lead, who has experience in the travel industry.
David Bentley, A4e's local business leader in Barnsley, said he was very proud of Niki. He said: "She has been an absolute inspiration to everyone and is truly worthy of this exciting career opportunity.
Her personal advisor, Steven Tasker, is particularly delighted that the effort, enthusiasm and commitment she showed on the programme reaped a much-deserved reward."
A4e delivers the Work Programme launched in 2011 to provide personalised support for people who are long-term unemployed.
On arrival in Majorca, where she will be working on a six-month contract, Niki will have a ten-day job induction.
© 2013 Barnsley Chronicle Ltd