A couple facing the aftermath of a stroke and cancer diagnosis have spoken about the difference an RAF Benevolent Fund Group Friendship Break in Suffolk made to their lives, giving them the chance to step away from their health challenges, meet others with shared experiences and realise they were not alone.
James and his partner Claire attended the four-day break run by the RAF’s longest-standing charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund, in June, following one of the most difficult periods of their 30 years together.
Just over a year earlier, James had suffered a stroke which left him adjusting to sight loss, fatigue and the loss of much of his independence. At the same time, Claire was facing her own cancer diagnosis while supporting James through his recovery.
The break gave them the chance to get away from the pressures of everyday life, enjoy themselves and spend time with other members of the RAF Family.
For James, simply being able to take part again made a significant difference. He said:
“The break was absolutely fantastic. It was great to be able to be involved in stuff again and not just sitting on the fringes and watching what’s going on like I used to.”
But it was the friendships they made that stayed with him most.
“We did nothing but laugh from start to finish; it was brilliant,” he said. “It was like a big family Christmas. You were chatting away and laughing and joking, but it was like being around people you’d known for years.”
For Claire, who had supported James through his stroke while dealing with her own health challenges, the break was also a chance to relax and discover the Fund’s support was there for her too.
James said:
“Claire thought it was my thing to start with, and then she found out it’s not just about me, it’s about her as well. I honestly can’t remember the last time I saw Claire laugh as much as she did, or joke about as much. She had an amazing time. It was one of the best holidays I’ve ever been on.”
For James and Claire, the sense of connection was invaluable.
“Meeting other people and finding out we’re not alone has made a big difference,” James said.
After a year dominated by illness and recovery, the break gave the couple new friendships, renewed confidence and, perhaps most importantly, the chance to laugh together again.
