My story with SWV began in back in 2017 when I happened to come across their Pain Management Programme (PMP) specifically designed for Veterans’. I remember I was very reluctant at the time to try this, as I have attended Pain Management ‘style’ sessions with the NHS after several failed spinal surgeries, I came away with a dejected and feeling misunderstood. Destined to live a life of chronic pain, Zombie inducing medicated states, depression, anxiety and the feeling of being powerless and hopeless.
After gentle, yet firm persuasion from my wife (Melanie) and kids to give it a try, I reluctantly agreed and set out to complete the online application form - but fortunately for me Melanie, produced a mostly completed form for me. What were the odds!

Luckily, SWV accepted me onto the programme and from then on, my life changed.

The SWV PMP was run by a team who understood veterans, our injuries, thoughts and importantly our mind set. Everything from medication I received, to pain psychology was covered. I learnt how to understand my pain, how to better manage it, and begin a path of self-improvement. A major victory for me was through the support of SWV and this programme I managed to express my chronic pain and win over an NHS Pain Board and in 2018 was successful candidate for the Spinal Cord Stimulator surgical procedure which in turn significantly reduced my medication intake, opened new pathways to my pain management and opened the possibilities to seek permanent employment.

In March 2018 I was also blessed to attend the Ski Week in Kolsters, Switzerland. This week was such a boost to my mental health and feeling I’m not a waste of space. The week was pitched perfectly. I had never skied before, the instructors and support staff were incredible and a week away, with veteran community was amazing. Being able to listen, share each other journeys in a banter rich environment was amazing and therapeutic.

I can honestly say without SWV and the PMP I dread to think of what my life would be like now and thank SWV for helping me become a better man I am today. SWV is a very special charity.

“Lee served 13 years in the Royal Artillery and was medically discharged in 2015. Lee is one of our Veteran ambassadors”.