Wotton Lawn Mental Health Hospital in Gloucester proved an absolute lifeline for Roger in late 2016/early 2017 following a year-long battle with severe depression and anxiety.

Maggie and his sister Louise visited Roger there many times and saw first-hand how he blossomed and grew in confidence during his 7-week stay. Roger learned so much from being at Wotton Lawn; from talking with the staff and perhaps more importantly, from learning about his fellow patients and their struggles.

Roger was deeply grateful for the care and support he received at Wotton Lawn and, as a family, we are indebted to those who cared for him. These words from the 2Gether NHS Foundation Trust fundraising leaflet resonate powerfully with us and could have been written about Roger:

“Mental ill health is an illness like any other. Whatever form it takes, many people are struggling with it right now and 1 in 4 of us will experience mental illness over the course of a year. For many people, recovery can be quick – perhaps a few months. For others, the enduring struggle with their illness can lead to years of difficulties with significant personal and family consequences.

Participating in creative and physical activities, making new friends and celebrating life are proven ways to improve our overall wellbeing; helping to make life worth living with hope and something to look forward to. The Trust’s Charitable Funds enable people to experience things which are not part of core NHS spending. They could not be offered without your generosity.”