Michael, a 93-year-old from Bispham, faced immense challenges following a serious operation that greatly impacted his ability to walk and talk. A former active member of the armed forces, Michael found himself struggling with his mental health and communication skills post-surgery.
Throughout his life, Michael was remarkably active, running up to seven miles a day until he was 87. However, an emergency surgery marked a significant decline in his physical and mental well-being. The aftermath left him unable to perform tasks that once came naturally, and his speech was severely impaired, affecting his confidence and mental health. Feeling isolated and frustrated, he sought help from his GP, who recommended Blackpool FC Community Trust’s (BFCCT) Get Vocal, a supportive platform for men struggling with their mental health issues.
Despite initial challenges with his speech, Michael began attending Get Vocal sessions regularly. With the support of the staff, he gradually regained his confidence and saw improvements in his ability to communicate.
Encouraged by his progress, the staff referred him to NAAFI Break, a group for veterans to socialise over breakfast. Joining NAAFI Break offered Michael another avenue for socialisation and skill development. Being surrounded by peers with similar military experiences brought him comfort and camaraderie. His wife, Elizabeth, also joined him, and they both enjoyed meeting new people with shared interests. With ongoing support from the staff and participants, Michael continued to flourish.
Michael’s journey highlights the power of personalised interventions and supportive communities in improving mental health and well-being. Following continued attendance to BFCCT sessions Michael regained his ability to communicate and found renewed purpose in life.
Michael recently attended a reunion with those he served with. Michael told the Get Vocal group “It was the first time in six years that they (Michael’s friends) had heard me speak properly, and that is down to Brett and Dan. My friends noticed a big difference in my speech, and I was able to talk and joke with the people I care about. I wouldn’t have thought that possible until coming to this group and I can’t thank you enough”.
Elizabeth, his wife shared her thoughts, saying,
“Michael enjoys the Monday evening Get Vocal meetings and mixing with new people. He tells me everyone is so friendly! He is a very modest man and quite embarrassed over his loss of speech. I am so pleased that he is socialising more as it is needed to continue regaining hi
s confidence. Likewise, the veterans’ group is a good thing for him to mix with like-minded ex-military persons. He’s had such an interesting career, travelling the world whilst working in the forces.”
Michael’s story is a profound example of resilience and the importance of community support in overcoming life’s challenges. Through the compassionate intervention of Get Vocal and NAAFI Break, he found a path to recovery, renewed confidence, and a reinvigorated sense of purpose.
