Veterans Hub Testimonials

Sandy Beattie is a veteran and volunteer for the Veterans’ Orthopaedic Service.

He said: “I’m a British and Australian Army veteran, who was living overseas at the time when I was told I’ll needed spinal and orthopaedic treatment. As well as these multiple injuries, I also suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to my service.

“I relocated back to the UK to looked after by RJAH, where I am under the care of Mr Birender Balain. I will never forget Mr Balain’s compassion, understanding, empathy and, most importantly, his bedside manner – he could see the distress I was in and took the time to explain the plan of action.

“Volunteering within the Veterans’ Orthopaedic Service gives me purpose, after I’ve medically retired from service, and gives me the opportunity to give something back for the care I received at RJAH. I’m grateful that I can contribute to veterans’ welfare and give guidance and direction to support them.”

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Chris McManus, a veteran patient, said:

"Having left the services in 2019, with a requirement for surgical intervention, I count myself as very fortunate for being referred to Lt Col Meyer. From consultation, through surgery and recovery I class his service as one of the best in the world. I am now in a physical position to be able to continue, pain free, with my life and be the Dad / husband that my family deserve.

"As many servicemen and women will find, giving your all, means that often we leave active service with physical and mental support needs. It’s a big daunting world and having that type of support in place cannot be covered in pounds and pence as its benefits are incalculable.

"I came back to the Armed Forces Outreach Support facility, at Oswestry, and I was in awe of the facility and service provided. First of all the new building is fantastic, modern, spacious, calm, and welcoming. Plus, the café is a real bonus. I came to get advice on pursuing an Armed Forces compensation claim. Nicky, from SSAFA charity,  was fantastic and having the opportunity to receive support face to face in a private room was brilliant. I got answers to all my questions and I now feel ready for the next step of the process, armed with knowledge.

"My advice to anyone thinking of reaching out or even thinking of NOT reaching out is to please make the jump. What a fantastic service and long may it flourish."