Case Studies
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Close Family Member
J served in the British Army and his daughter has Multiple Sclerosis. On leaving the Army to move back to his hometown, his daughter’s care was also going to move to another Trust. Once they had moved, the Trust informed him that his daughter could not stay on the same place on the waiting list for planned treatment. J was going to have to drive from Liverpool to Southampton so that his daughter could keep her place on the waiting list. With support from the previous Trust’s Veterans’ Champion, his daughter was able to keep her place on the new waiting list and to continue her treatment.
Mental Health
When the icy waters of the Thames closed over Mark’s head, his life could have ended. He was homeless, isolated and in utter despair. He’d lost his job, his relationship had broken down, alcohol had become a serious problem and he was sleeping rough. Four days after being pulled out of the river, he was put in contact with Veterans Aid. Within hours, he was given new clothes, hot food and accommodation. When he left the charity’s care, he was a different man. Today he had a home, a job and a future.
Carer
A carer was struggling to find a suitable nursing home for her husband who had suffered a stroke and who had recently been diagnosed with dementia. When asked whether he had served, it transpired that both had served in the RAF. The cared for person was then offered a place in a specialist nursing home for veterans.
PTSD
David was offered a place to study a BSc Hons Degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Nottingham. While studying, David’s life began to get out of hand, he was referred to Walking with the Wounded (WWTW) through Hidden wounds. Head Start provided David with 12 sessions of therapy. This gave him the skills to help support his mental health. “It was great to get a rapid response. Waiting to see a therapist would have been too later as I was probably pushing myself too hard trying to cope with my studying and my condition.” David now has a greater understanding of his mental health and is much more open about his wellbeing. He is able to recognise when he needs support and can use the skills he developed during his therapy. David’s shoulder injury also still affects him, but he is able to manage the pain and to maintain his fitness.
Disability
Gary is a former Royal Marine Corporal who served 11 years and who was medically retired due to an accident. He uses a wheelchair and is still able to drive. Gary needed a specialist tilting bed during COVID lockdown that would help with his recovery and prevent further pressure sores due to reduced mobility. The only one available to him via the NHS required his carer to reposition him every two hours, including at night. There was a bed available that automatically tilts and repositions, but this was not available on the NHS. One week after being home, the funding was agreed by DMWS, and a week later, the bed arrived. Gary’s condition has improved, he’s in a home environment with his carer – and his dogs. This is far better for his mental health and long-term recovery.