A family’s perspective - Kat, Poppy and Willow
As part of the Live Life project Stand Easy runs various events for military/veteran families, this includes twice yearly Creative Family Weekends. These take place in Edinburgh and are for the whole family, including young people. Kat, Willow and Poppy have attended all three of our family weekends, hear what they have to say about their experience.
This was our third time taking part in a Stand Easy/live life families weekend and each time it outweighs the last. Having just returned home from another fab weekend I have taken so much positive energy away with me. The girls have said more than once that they miss it. Both stood at the end of my bed this morning and said “mum I wish we were back!”
Our children create so many amazing pieces I can't quite believe their abilities, I laughed so much and had a wee unexpected cry, but that's ok. That's the thing with the brilliant team at Stand Easy, they bring the best out in us all. I'd say if anyone was thinking (like me at the beginning) that's not something I could do or I'm not good at that, you don't need to be worried.
We created a mini performance in under an hour, based on some of the things we had done over the weekend it just flowed so easy. There is never any pressure, if you don't want to participate someone from Stand Easy will step in with no questions asked.
I love how they collaborate with other veterans organisations as they balance is always right. This weekend took place at Thistle Wellbeing Centre in Edinburgh where they have a long history of supporting veterans. It was completely accessible and had such a comfortable and inviting feel, the staff were so accommodating. It's been my favourite weekend so far.
We cannot wait for the next time as you never know what the weekend will bring but we always go home feeling proud of our achievements. The unspoken connections between veterans families always makes me feel part of something bigger.
Thank you all again for all the love and support you extend to our whole family. We really feel part of something special.
Kat
