Some struggles are unseen but deeply felt. Alcohol addiction is one such challenge, often impacting relationships, health, and overall well-being. Yet, there is hope, and recovery is possible.
Lieutenant Commander Mark Driscoll turned his life around, sought help, and, in turn, inspired others to join him on his mission to smash the stigma and support recovery for those in need.
Like so many others, Mark faced the harsh realities of alcohol dependency. Days were marked by a seemingly endless cycle of poor health, strained relationships, and the mental toll of trying to cope. It’s a familiar pattern to many, one which could be found not only in the general population but also within many professions where the toll of alcohol dependency is often hidden beneath a façade of strength.
One day, enough was enough, says Mark:
They say it’s darkest before the dawn. I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired of the whole Groundhog Day experience and so desperately wanted to stop. Finally, I lifted the heaviest thing in the world – I lifted my hand up and asked for help.
With incredible support, Mark found the strength to begin his recovery journey. Along the way, he not only found healing but also embraced physical fitness, shedding 17kg and achieving a bleep test score of 16.3. A testament to the power of sobriety – both mental and physical.
During his time of transformation, Mark realised the importance of giving back. Having experienced the benefits of support firsthand, he wanted to pay it forward by running the Warrington Half Marathon a few years ago, raising over £1,000 for Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC), a significant step in a larger vision to support those still struggling with recovery. As First Lieutenant of HMS Eaglet, he continued this focus on fitness and wellbeing, running every RNFT (Royal Navy Fitness Test) alongside the Ship's Company and encouraging others to take part.
Last year, after several years of sobriety, Mark was extremely grateful to be given the Assignment Order of having the honour to serve as Executive Officer (XO) of HMS Eaglet. This role presented an opportunity to make a real difference, not just by meeting daily requirements, but by setting a vision for the ship's culture – one that values fitness, wellbeing, and support for those in need.
During a wider Armed Forces event, Mark was introduced to Tom Harrison House – a charity dedicated to supporting Armed Forces personnel and veterans on their recovery pathways. Inspired by this, Mark made it his mission to raise awareness.
What happened next exceeded all expectations. Mark decided to run the Liverpool Half Marathon, with 25% of the Ship's Company at HMS Eaglet signing up to run the marathon alongside him. No pressure, no expectations, just a collective desire to raise funds for both RNRMC and Tom Harrison House. The momentum is undeniable. This is not just a fundraising event but a symbol of unity and hope for those who have experienced struggles with addiction and mental health.
Team Eaglet is currently training in earnest with members from all walks of life – junior ratings, senior officers, and representatives from other services – joined together and united by a common cause, encouraging each other through the highs and lows of the journey – a reminder that recovery doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavour.
As the team prepare for the half marathon on Sunday, 23rd March, starting from Liverpool’s iconic Liver Building, their message is clear: recovery is possible, and together, we are stronger.
For Mark, this is not only about fundraising but creating a lasting impact on the lives of those who may still be trapped in the cycle of addiction and providing a beacon of hope for anyone looking to take that first step towards recovery.
“There is a dazzlingly bright future beyond addiction, one where strength, health, and camaraderie are the foundation for a better tomorrow,” says Mark.
No one needs to struggle in isolation; there is always hope for a better future.
Through his sobriety, Mark has not only changed his own life but has inspired an entire team to run for a cause greater than themselves. The Liverpool Half Marathon is more than a race – it is a testament to the strength of community, the power of recovery, and the unwavering belief that, together, anything is possible.
To support Mark and Team Eaglet on this incredible journey, click here.
