It has been an incredibly tough and challenging year for all of us, and certainly the most difficult we have faced as a charity.
We had three of our main fundraising events cancelled - the Bath Half, Dragonboat Race and our Yomp - leaving a big hole in the funds needed for us to help veterans living with PTSD.
Our small team moved into a new way of thinking, how can we best provide our services in the middle of a global pandemic? Firstly, we managed to successfully navigate the conflicting covid-19 restrictions in three European countries and took John through his Mountain Way experience. Secondly, we made our support sessions (provided to all past and future guests) remote, got to grips with Zoom meetings, began our 'Bouncing Forward' podcast, and amongst it all, found hope amongst our friends and supporters. We also helped two new guests through our adapted programme, and yesterday launched our new Support Group consisting of three intrepid volunteers; John, Anne and Sophie, which will swing into action this week to help those who are lonely and very vulnerable at this time of year.
This year, one veteran has taken their life every four days - that's an increase on one in five in 2019. Those are terrible statistics and lives lost. This is why we want to thank you for your kindness and support - whether it's through sharing our cause, donating, fundraising or helping others to find us - we could not do what we do without your help. And we have lots more work to do.
But, from father and son Lee and Ryan Powles - who climbed the UK's 10 highest peaks in just 84 hours raising over £2500, to friend Bernie Plunkett - who has donated the proceeds of his book to us, and former guest and veteran Ric Coulson - who has inspired and supported us through his beautiful art and intricate sculpted conflict poppies, we have so many of you to thank. A blog simply doesn't give us enough room to do so.
So from the bottom of our hearts, we want you to know that we appreciate every single one of you.
We hope you have a good festive break, get all the rest and relaxation you need, and we look forward to seeing you all again in the New Year.
Best,
The Mountain Way team.
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If you find yourself struggling over the holidays, do get in touch with the Samaritans, Mind, CALM, or your GP:
Other helpful resources: