By Blesma Member Ron Bright, 83 

I am a relatively new Member of Blesma even though I sustained my injuries long ago, 1950ish.  In fact, when I was doing my National Service, as it was then.

When my unit was de-mobbed I was in hospital and so I lost contact with all the guys, as well as all my belongings. There were no goodbyes or keep in touch for me.  I didn't realise how much I missed he untill I went on Charley Streather's photographic course at the Blesma's home in Blackpool. One of the best things I have ever done!

Having never done anything like that before and being now in a wheelchair and in my 80's I was pretty nervous about venturing into this bold adventure.  I needn't have worried; from the moment I arrived, when I was whisked from my car into a busy dining room and presented with dinner, I immediately knew this was going to be good

Photography Week with Blesma took my mind back to exactly how it was in my army days, with all the goodbyes from friendly companions, solidarity, feeling valued, part of something worthwhile, it gave me a feeling of completeness, of closure of my service life but with a continuity to follow and I feel one enormous benefit from that.

 

Ron earlier this year with the the Gazelle Squadron

I must say I felt so comfortable, so relaxed and so natural at the home. I feel that I settled down into feeling that I was an established part of it, as if I had always been part of it and it was great. This of course was due to the wonderful staff for whom nothing was too much trouble. I am truly grateful to Jacqui the manager, Conny the housekeeper/bar keeper, Sid who kept my wheelchair working and Cathy who seemed always there when I needed someone. I don't want to leave anyone out and there were others whose names escape me at present.

The course itself was excellent. With able coordinators like Terri and Jeff it was slick and concentrated - and you couldn't have found a better leader than Charley - and boy does he know his stuff

I came away feeling complete, as I said, but also with some new valued friends and acquaintances. I remember my morning chats with Beatrice, widow of a former National Secretary | believe. Mike the model man with his display of hobby work in the conservatory - | like model making too - and of course my table mates another Mike ex-Navy, Tom ex-RAF and Jeff ex Army. I mustn't forget Carol, a course participant who saved my bacon several times by sorting out problems with me and my laptop. All the folks on the course were great and I applaud you.

As I say a great experience - and greetings and my sincere thanks to you all.

To get involved with photography or any of our activities please contact our activities manager David Coulton on activities@blesma.org or call 020 8590 1124