I saw SWV Ocean Challenge 2022 were seeking Buddies and with no boat to maintain myself - I knew I had the time and enthusiasm to apply to become a Buddy. Then, I discovered my neighbour on the river is the brother of one of the organisers - plus I was married to an army officer so there was an instant connection. I'm very proud to be able to participate and support this amazing event.

And some first-hand feedback from veterans who have participated in previous sporthabilitation events.

“thank you for helping me to forget my problems for a while and you and the buddies making me feel loved and special.”

 “It works because of the generosity of spirit of all those who are involved and the atmosphere of trust and compassion that I met at every turn. For someone who has been judged harshly, especially by myself, I found the week enlightening and liberating, showing me how to reconnect with both people and my emotions. And what a bunch of people they are; truly inspiring all of them, the committee; the volunteers; the Med team; the buddies and the veterans. I feel changed.”

 “Thank you for everything it means so much more than you know, I came on this trip thinking I don't need fixing, how wrong was I, not only have I gained a new skill and hobby and lots more friends but I really have discovered myself and for this I cannot thank you enough.”

 “Thank so much for a fantastic week, I don't think you will ever realise how much you have helped wounded veterans.”

  "I cannot believe how much the charity has done for us this week and will be offering me in the future, it is so much more than I ever could have expected. Injured soldiers don't want sympathy; they just want opportunity. ”

 “Thank you for providing the stepping stones form which I can start a new journey.”  

 “…you have allowed me to put some demons to bed and let me achieve a dream I NEVER thought might become a reality…” 

 “I have had 5 years of nothing but hospital visits and being told negative, and scary, things about what was going to happen to my life. This is the first time for a long time that I have been treated as a human being with the chance for a positive future. The boost to my confidence and self-belief has been massive.”

 “Thank you for believing in me “

 “Being part of SWV has opened my eyes to the art of the possible.   All of us came here with an idea of what we could do, but with the charity's encouragement and support we are finding ourselves going above and beyond what we thought we might achieve.”

 “Thank you for all your help I worry so much about everything bloody hell, can’t believe I was ever a soldier. Really felt when I was medical discharge I was on my own in the big wide world, but so happy I have you guys behind me. I think if I never had SWV I wouldn’t be here now.  Thank you” "SWV has drawn together the right team to address one of the greatest barriers wounded veterans face in getting back into employment.”

 “I have lived with chronic pain for several years and the stress and direct effect that pain has on an individual/family is crippling both physically and mentally.  It drains you like pulling the plug on a swimming pool. Eventually that pool will empty and you can see no way of refilling it……….” “you just live with it”