"Support makes all the difference": Blind Veterans UK hold summer camp at HMS Sultan in Gosport
HMS Sultan in Gosport welcomed blind veterans for a week of activities and camaraderie
Veterans with impaired sight from all over the country travelled to HMS Sultan in Gosport to take part in Blind Veterans UK Summer Camp.
The veterans gathered at the Royal Navy Air and Marine engineering training base as part of a week packed full of fun activities, including sailing, archery, lawn bowls and a visit to the Royal Artillery Equestrian Centre, aided by volunteers from HMS Sultan and the retired Service community.
The summer camp has been held at the HMS Sultan since 1996. This year's camp, held from Friday 7 to Saturday 15 August, welcomed 17 blind veterans and 15 helpers to HMS Sultan.
Captain Mark Hamilton, Commanding Officer of HMS Sultan, said: “It is a privilege to welcome the veterans into HMS Sultan, once again, for the Blind Veterans Summer Camp. The week is crammed full of exciting and challenging activities, in a unique environment, which allows them to re-engage in the camaraderie of the Armed Forces, in a way which also challenges stereotypes around disabilities.
“Every one of our campers provide an outstanding example of what can be achieved with the will to overcome adversity.”
Among this year's campers was first-time attendee Steve Parnell, who served as a steward in the RAF between 1986 and 199.
Steve said: "This is the first time I’ve come to the camp, so I was a little bit nervous, but what I love about it is the camaraderie. Civilians don't really get it, but it doesn't matter if you were Air Force, Navy or Army, you've got that in common, and everyone gives you encouragement, with a bit of military humour thrown in too.”
Steve was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye condition, in 1991, and was registered blind in 2004.
Losing his sight cost him his job and forced him to move back in with his parents, but Steve rebuilt his life and career retraining first as a fitness instructor, working in the industry for 15 years, then qualifying as a remedial massage therapist.
Alongside this, Steve has become an accomplished triathlete, completing around 20 Olympic distance triathlons and a further 20 sprint triathlons.
Steve has had support from Blind Veterans UK throughout his journey, and had volunteer helping him throughout the summer camp.
“John's helping me around this week, and even something like finding my way back from the showers, which isn't far, but I keep losing my way, having that bit of support makes it so much easier”, said Steve.
“I had a go at archery yesterday too, and out of all the shots I took, I think I only missed two, which I was really pleased,” he said. “If you try something and you can't do it, that's fine, at least you've given it a go, that's exactly how I felt before my first triathlon. I hate rock climbing and I still can't do it, but I gave it a go anyway. Everyone here is just so helpful, and that support makes all the difference."
"If I was speaking to other veterans and their families who haven't been before, I'd say just give it a go. Even though the week is full on, it gives me a chance to properly relax and recharge my batteries away from work. Everyone here is friendly and supportive, and it doesn't matter your level of ability, there'll be something for everyone to do,” said Steve.
Adrian Bell, CEO of Blind Veterans UK, said: "Every time I attend this camp, I'm reminded of why it's so special. The camaraderie of old friends coming back together, and the integration of new campers into the community, the challenge of new activities, and the support from HMS Sultan create an environment where our members can grow in confidence and flourish.
“As a naval veteran myself, I know how important the bonds that bind us are, and I'm proud to see the difference they make to the lives of our members. I'm so grateful to everyone at HMS Sultan for their fantastic support which makes this exceptional week possible."