Gary's Story
The Pathfinder March is an annual (Sat 22 June) 46 mile long distance challenge, in a day, around the four main Airbases, following the Pathfinder Way to commemorate the Path Finder Force which operated out of RAF Wyton, RAF Gravely, RAF Oakington, RAF Warboys and their satellite bases from 1942 to 1945.
The difficulties experienced by some service-men and women in making the transition to civilian life is well understood and often well described, but not well served. Care After Combat fills that void in many ways, one of which is to provide mentors, a role that continues to give me the opportunity to add back - Care After Combat supports veterans with alcohol and substance misuse problems, to reduce the number of re-offending veterans in the criminal justice system.
So, taking on 46 miles, in a single day, is my personal challenge: having been diagnosed with Arrythmic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy and an ICD implanted a few months following retirement, after 28 years with the REME. My children; Kirsty and Tony have 'volunteered' to walk with me.
