Giving something back to the RAF family

When Chris Lumb was medically discharged from the RAF Police, the RAF Benevolent Fund stepped in to support Chris and his family. Now Chris and his wife Lisa are giving something back – Chris tells us more in this blog.

Chris, when he was serving in Cyprus with the RAF Police.In 2007 I started to suffer with my physical and mental health following a horrific car accident in northern Cyprus. This, combined with pressure of dealing with highly stressful incidents in my role as an RAF Policeman, sent my health into a downward spiral.

It is one hell of a wrench to let go of something that you have lived and would die for, I held so much pride in what I was and what I had achieved.  

I was medically discharged from the RAF, and that’s when the RAF Benevolent Fund stepped in to help. Standing on your own feet and earning a good wage by serving your country is an amazing feeling and I never thought I would be the one to 'crash'.

I’m a very proud individual, so one of the hardest things was to become ‘a charity case’ and it does not sit well having to ask for help. It does feel demoralising, but I have never been made to feel like this by the team at the RAF Benevolent Fund.

They have always shown my family and me the utmost respect and courtesy. They are all so approachable and helpful, and in my darkest hours there was always a friend on the end of the phone.

Chris's wife, Lisa, who is running the Manchester 10K, the Nantwich Triathlon and the Freckleton Half Marathon for the RAF Benevolent Fund.Now, four years later my wife, Lisa, and I intend to give back as much as we can. I have volunteered to be the area coordinator for selling poppies this year. I will be poking my stick at people and wearing my beret, medals and RAF Police tie and armband with pride whilst I do so. 

Lisa has decided to really throw her hat in the ring and entered three events in four weeks in an attempt to try and raise £1,000 for the RAF Benevolent Fund. She’s entered the Manchester 10K, the Nantwich Triathlon and the Freckleton Half Marathon.

The RAFBF have helped us immensely and without them stepping in and supporting us, I don’t know what we would have done or how we would have survived the past few years.  

So if you can spare a few pounds, please sponsor Lisa on her JustGiving page or text LISA68 £10 to 70070.

Thank you!

Chris Lumb