ABF, The Soldiers’ Charity - Kirstie McPhearson

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the national charity of the British Army, providing a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families when they are in need. Founded in 1944 they ensured that soldiers returning from World War Two were well cared for. Since then, the welfare of soldiers, past and present, and their families has been at the heart of everything they do.

Kirstie has a neurological condition which leaves her with uncontrollable and often painful muscle spasms, severe muscle fatigue, tiredness, blinding migraines and sleep deprivation. She can fall without warning and, after a serious fall a few years ago when her leg completely separated from the hip, Kirstie was told that she may never walk again. However, after a series of operations and sheer determination, Kirstie is able to walk short distances with the aid of crutches.

Kirstie, who is married to a Coldstream Guards veteran, approached The Soldiers’ Charity for funding assistance for an all-terrain wheelchair to enable her to carry out everyday tasks including taking her children to school. The Soldiers Fund provided a grant toward this funding.