‘When I am in the cockpit none of my problems matter in fact
the higher I am off the ground the less bothered I am about everything.’
In 2004, Simon was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD). The PTSD and its social stigma caused Simon to
feel low, doubt himself and question everything he did which was such a shock
as he had always been very confident, determined and career orientated
expecting to move up the ranks from his position as Corporal Section Commander in the Army.
Simon’s interest in flying came through a seven day gliding
experience and a one day behind the scenes programme at Heathrow which included
a flight simulator experience. Simon
first heard about Aerobility through Band of Brothers (part of Help for Heroes
that provide lifelong access to support and opportunities to their members) who
invited Simon to a flying Experience day at Aerobility. During this day he learnt more about the
scholarship opportunities available from Help for Heroes and The Air League
(who are supported in this project by Boeing).
Simon says ‘The first lesson was life changing; I felt on top of the
world and was completely hooked. I
hadn’t felt like that for a long time’.
With support from Aerobility he successfully applied for a scholarship
for his lessons.
Simon says ‘My wife noticed the difference straight
away. She saw how flying lifted my mood
and that I smoked less. Everybody should
learn to fly, it’s a different world where you get a different perspective on
life and can leave your cares behind. I
would like to thank everybody at Aerobility for the phenomenal experience they
have given me. Even if I wasn’t funded somehow I would find
a way to continue flying.’
Simon has completed 8 hours training over 8 lessons and is
currently working towards his Private Pilot’s License (PPL). ‘I don’t yet know where it will take me, I
need to be realistic, but I do know I want to give back so that others will
have the opportunity to benefit from flying.’
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