Glasgow veteran's life changed thanks to Help for Heroes
Darren Forsythe, a former Royal Navy submariner from Glasgow, says that his life has been transformed thanks to support from veterans' charity Help for Heroes.
Darren, 48, signed up for the Royal Navy at the age of 23 and spent four years on a nuclear submarine as a marine engineer mechanic.
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Though he forged friendships that would last a lifetime, Darren also developed a mental health condition that ultimately led to a medical discharge from the service.
He said: "My condition means that I can get very low and have some dark thoughts.
"It's really affected my relationships and my ability to work."
But after connecting with Help for Heroes, Darren says the impact has been life-changing.
He said: "Getting support from Help for Heroes has changed my life – the change is like the difference between night and day."
Through the charity, Darren was introduced to the Community Sports Series, a programme designed to help veterans rediscover motivation and community through adaptive sports.
Darren Forsythe (Image: Supplied) It was here that Darren found a passion for wheelchair rugby and archery, even giving rock climbing a go – despite living with rheumatoid arthritis.
The next Community Sports Series event will take place at the National Disability Sports Training Centre in Inverclyde on May 31.
This two-day gathering invites veterans and their families to try a variety of adaptive sports and connect with others who have served.
Recent figures have revealed that there are currently 6,868 veterans living in Glasgow City.
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Darren hopes to encourage more of them to seek support.
He said: "I know there are other men and women who have served in the armed forces in the local area who have their own challenges.
"Some are struggling with physical injuries, some have mental health problems, or are finding it difficult to adapt to civilian life.
"I want to urge them to reach out and get help."
"When I first contacted Help for Heroes, someone got in touch pretty much straight away, and it's been amazing.
"Whenever I've felt like I can't do anything, their approach has been 'don't worry, we'll find a way round it'.
"And it's helped to give me more motivation.
'I was never really a sporty person, but through wheelchair rugby and archery, I've discovered a competitive streak and a really positive outlet, and I'm now a member of an archery club.
'My wife says that when I come back from one of their Sports Series weekends that I'm bouncing.
"My illness has had a real impact on her as well.
"What Help for Heroes have done for me is priceless, and is helping me to cope with a condition that I'm going to be living with for the rest of my life."
Anyone looking for support from the veterans charity is encouraged to visit the Help for Heroes website or call 0300 303 9888.
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