I am so grateful to Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and its amazing supporters. They mean a lot to us veterans – they literally save lives.
As soon as I joined the Royal Navy. I was surrounded by this incredible sense of unity from my crew-mates. Throughout my career, I shared incredible and often challenging experiences with my naval family.
I was serving in Baghdad when everything changed. Our helicopter was returning to the International Zone when it was shot down. I sustained severe injuries to my right knee and, eventually, I took the agonising decision to take medical discharge.
My leg was amputated but my biggest challenge was adjusting to life on civvy street. I was no longer surrounded by my crew, who had always had my back. I felt vulnerable, lost and alone and my mental health was suffering.
Then I chanced upon a charity that Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity funds. Turn to Starboard offers opportunities for veterans affected by military operations to sail.
As soon as I arrived at Turn to Starboard, I felt like I was home. I am surrounded by veterans again. They are my new crew! And I have purpose again, sailing on the sea, which is my happy place, supporting other veterans and taking my Yachtmasters exam.
I am forever grateful to supporters of Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity - they are an amazing part of our naval family, and I will never forget them.
In 2024, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity were able to help more than 135,000 people like Janet. Every single one of them has their own story. Your support is changing so many lives. Thank you, your support is always appreciated.
If you would like to help today, please click here.
