Running is something Nerys Thomas has always loved and provides an outlet for her around her job as a Central Response Officer for Mid and West Wales FRS.
However, when she suffered a skiing accident in February 2017, she faced months away from her hobby and a subsequent hit to her overall wellbeing.
She says, thanks to our support, she was able to run again faster than she could have imagined was possible… and just four years later, she knew exactly where to turn following a devastating bereavement.
“My initial accident happened when I was on my first ever ski holiday, in Bulgaria,” says Nerys. “I fell, quite awkwardly, and really hurt my knee. It later turned out I’d cracked one of the tendons.
“A few months after that, I got in touch with the charity. I was invited to Marine Court for a week’s rehabilitation and it was absolutely amazing.
“We had pool sessions, workshops, walks and time in the gym. I used to do a lot of running, so my goal was to get back running. I was able to use the anti-gravity machine there which was absolutely amazing, and I left the centre no longer limping and on my way to running again!
Nerys’ parents
“The charity was absolutely brilliant, throughout my contact with them. Without that, I definitely wouldn’t have been able to run again so quickly.
“I’m keen to spread the word to other green book staff who still aren’t aware they’re eligible for support from the charity.”
Her experience stuck with her and Nerys later got in touch with us during a challenging time in her personal life.
Nerys injured herself skiing
“I was invited to Harcombe House with my mum, after my dad sadly passed away. We were there on a Rest and Recharge stay and it was so nice,” she adds.
“My mum has got bladder cancer and also had a stroke not long before, so it was a much-needed break away for her.
“The weather was boiling so we enjoyed some lovely walks, reading outside, some trips to the local area and then we had all our meals prepared for us by the chefs there which were amazing.”
Nerys now volunteers for us as one of our dedicated Service Coordinators, and she’s keen to spread the word about how enjoyable the role is – and the importance of her work.
“I’ve been Service Coordinator since 2006 for the charity,” says Nerys.
“I was lucky enough to go to Downing Street when we won Best Brigade of the Year.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the role over the years, it’s such a great link to all parts of the fire service and it’s really rewarding, knowing the difference you’re making to the charity. I feel like I know everybody now!”
If you feel you’d benefit from our health and wellbeing support, you can call our Support Line on 0800 389 8820, make an enquiry online or visit the ‘Access Support’ tab in My Fire Fighters Charity.
And remember – if you’re feeling suicidal, you can call our Crisis Line 24 hours a day on 0300 373 0896.