Life can take unexpected turns, especially for our brave veterans and first responders.
Being forced to medically retire from a job we love is heartbreaking. It's something we never consider when we take on the role in the first place, and when faced with medical retirement, it's a frightening experience with so many unknowns.
New way of life
Meet Jane, a resilient 35-year-old woman who dedicated herself to serving in the Australian Defence Force. After 14 years, her journey took that unexpected turn when some medical issues ultimately led to her discharge from service. The discharge process itself is distressing and lonely, and as well as the challenge of healing and getting physically well again, she experienced many ups and downs.
Jane found herself in an unfamiliar place - an uncertain world with new life-work dynamics and expectations. The routine she once knew was replaced by the need to redefine her purpose and find a new sense of belonging. She deeply mourned her loss of military identity.
And understandably, her mental health issues and various surgeries had taken their toll on her confidence and self-belief.
In her own words, Jane felt "broken." She needed support to rebuild her sense of self and rediscover her potential outside of the Army.
"Straight away, I felt like I belonged."
When Jane found Buddy Up, it was like coming home.
Through her involvement with Buddy Up, joining in fitness, social and volunteering events, she's found that sense of purpose, community and happiness she was missing after leaving the Army.
At Buddy Up, Jane discovered a network of like-minded individuals who understood her journey and gave her the support she needed. Through physical fitness activities, social engagement, and volunteering, she felt that sense of belonging once again. She felt genuinely connected.
Transitioning to civilian life is challenging. While everyone's experience does vary, at Buddy Up, we understand how to help veterans navigate their difficulties. We recognise their challenges and offer tailored support and practical ways to help improve their well-being.
"Being involved with Buddy Up provides me with the reconnection with people that 'get' me with no expectations or judgement has been invaluable to my health recovery. I absolutely love that there are activities for all levels and interests; a real effort is made to be inclusive, which makes me feel less 'broken'".
At Risk
We're so happy that Jane found Buddy Up.
But, the reality is that over 900 veterans are medically discharged each year - and our mission is to support others like Jane.
Without an organisation like Buddy Up, veterans can feel isolated and disconnected. Over time, this can escalate into feelings of loneliness and despair as they struggle to find a sense of belonging after leaving the Army.
Sadly but unsurprisingly, the Australian Government published a report* in 2020 that highlights veterans as a priority population for mental health struggles. Research shows that staying connected to a community and taking on responsibilities such as volunteering enhances veteran's mental well-being and overall quality of life.
Buddy Up Australia connects first responders and veterans with their communities through fitness, social activities, and volunteering. To do that, we've built a supportive community with resources tailored towards the specific needs of veterans and first responders.
How Buddy Up helps
Donations from your fundraisers play a crucial role in transforming the lives of veterans, first responders and their families. At the core of our organisation lies a strong sense of community. Our Buddy Up chapters across Australia organise a variety of social, activity-based, and wellness events designed to unite members and their families. This generates a deep sense of belonging as they share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
From fresh morning park runs to entertaining quiz nights to destress yoga workshops, our Buddy Up events are inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. And we couldn't do it without your support.
Our upcoming Buddy Up Challenge 2023 will be simple, social and active. The real fun part is that you get to choose your own challenge.
Join the Challenge
So, by taking on the Buddy Up November Challenge, you’re helping us to help veterans like Jane. You’ll be helping to improve the mental and physical well-being of our veterans, first responders and their families and bring them meaning and purpose again.
Buddy Up Australia is all about bringing our veterans and first responders together – we’ve created a strong community that has each other's backs. And we’d love you to join us for the Buddy Up Challenge so you can make a real difference in their lives too.
Let’s keep our veterans and first responders in the well zone today and always.
Find out more about Buddy Up Australia Challenge here
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