Live ChatThis Christmas, help families focus on making memories, after battling crisis.
Kyle and Sophie were both Army combat medics, used to helping others through the most difficult moments. Then their own family faced a crisis they could never have prepared for.
When Kyle and Sophie's daughter Skye fell terribly ill, the doctors told the family to prepare for the worst. Skye lost the ability to talk, walk or even hold her head up. They had to mentally prepare to say goodbye to their little girl.
Then, a last-chance treatment worked. Skye began to recover, although her illness left a lasting impact.
In Sophie's words: “One day she looked at a balloon and said, "Up!". We all cried when we heard her voice.”
But the family's battle was not yet over. Sophie was forced to give up her Army career to look after little Skye. Kyle was frequently away, travelling to where the Army needed him. The family home was too small for Skye's complex needs.
Pressure was building: anxiety for the future, sleep deprivation, a feeling that the family was starting to unravel.
That's when Sophie and Kyle made a life-changing call to SSAFA and met caseworker Eileen.
Watch and listen to Kyle and Sophie as they tell their story in their own words...
When Sophie and Kyle were overwhelmed, we carried some of the load.
When they were tired, we walked beside them.
When they called for back-up, we answered.
Because no one should battle alone.
SSAFA is here for every member of the Armed Forces community in their moment of need.
Tomorrow there will be another family facing crisis, another veteran needing help, a serving soldier, sailor or aviator feeling overwhelmed by personal challenges. This is why SSAFA is here - to help the men and women who have served our nation when they need us the most.
Thanks to people like you, we are able to answer their call.
This Christmas, please consider a donation to SSAFA and our Armed Forces.
