War veterans rebuild their confidence on Majorca break

A group of British Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been enjoying a welcome break in Pollensa this week.For another year, The Not Forgotten Association, with the help of the local community on the island, has brought out the first of three groups of wounded Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans for a break from their domestic routines, which for many still involves rehabilitation and treatment to get over their physical and mental wounds.
Most come with their partners and stay as guests of a British resident who owns a large finca near Pollensa and during their stay, all kids of activities are organised for the lads although the week away, quite often with soldiers from other regiments who they have never met before, provides them with an opportunity to bond and talk about and share their experiences.
Rosie Thompson, who is head of events for The Not Forgotten Association, always accompanies the group and she said yesterday that the lads, who fly home today, had a wonderful time.
“For the first time  they decided to go kayaking with  kayakmallorca and the group absolutely loved it.   The guy Oscar was really helpful especially with those who were struggling with some of their injuries but they didn’t give up and completed the three hour excursion to the lighthouse and back.   Of course all these activities cost money, yesterday we were with them at the Can Picafort go karting and again money is needed.   We as a Charity fully understand these guys need to be paid as it is their livelihood but we are always very happy to pay (we are given discounts) when they are so welcoming to the injured servicemen and their carers we bring over to the island.   These activities undoubtedly enhance the group’s stay as it gives them an opportunity to be active again and do something they didn’t think would be possible when first injured.    For one, a former Royal Marine double amputee on returning from the kayaking  said ‘I was on edge first thing this morning but being on the water has made me calm again’”.
“They have had the most fabulous time and will return home refreshed and with a more positive outlook on their very uncertain futures. And, and it is wonderful to see the change in them from the beginning of the week to the end.  
“On one of the days, Pedro from the Physiotherapy Clinic in Pollensa came out  to carry out massages on three of the injured soldiers and all three said how much better they felt and this again costs money.
“The Not Forgotten Association’s strap line is ‘Comradeship to Challenge’ and this is very much evident here.  
“For their host  and The Not Forgotten Association it really is a pleasure to be able to give something back to these young men and women who have served their country so proudly and who have suffered as a consequence.”
The second of three groups will arrive on 13 June and any help in covering come of the cost will be extremely welcome.
Donations can either be made via The Not Forgotten Association or direct by contacting me in full confidentiality at the newspaper.