Phil: “If my journey with mental health resonates with one person then it’s worth sharing”
London firefighter Phil Barton cycled 550 miles round our three centres, raising thousands, after seeing the impact those funds can have first-hand.
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Find out how Fire Fighters Charity has supported service users across the UK and how you can share your story with the fire community. Click categories or regions below to filter the list of stories.
Steve Norman, former Deputy Assistant Commissioner at LFB, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 10 years ago. He’s now sharing his story to raise awareness of the disease – and the difference understanding and support can make. Retired London firefighter John Chart is living with motor neurone disease and his positivity and strength have inspired his friend, firefighter Dan Ascough, to push him round the London Marathon in April in the same wheelchair used by Rob Burrow. Wayne Field has been a firefighter for 20 years and his daughter, Destiny, has now followed in his footsteps. They share how open communication helps them both – and why having access to wellbeing support is so important. Control Officers Helen and her daughter Laura received support at Marine Court and now hope to encourage any colleagues who’d benefit from help to reach out too.
Steve: “Accepting I had Parkinson’s took years, but it’s what finally helped me move forward”
Dan: “John inspires us every day – pushing him round the marathon is my way of giving back”
Wayne: “Talking about difficult shouts is how I cope – now I’m encouraging my daughter to do the same”
Helen: “I was blown away by the support – why don’t more of us think to get in touch?”