Taylor was medically discharged from the Royal Marines Commandos in 1998 following a heart attack. He was only in his late 30’s. He had served for 21 years that included periods of deployment to Northern Ireland.
After being discharged, he found work in a homeless facility before deciding to re-train as a registered mental health nurse, going on to specialise in caring for dementia patients.
Sadly, that career, too, was brought to an untimely end when he suffered a stroke and, again on health grounds, was forced into an early retirement.
He lives alone and – due to enduring pain and physical weakness – is unable to drive and he can only walk short distances with a stick. Taylor strives his best to keep his house clean and tidy but someone has to help with the majority of the housework as he’s physically unable to manage much himself.
As if this wasn’t enough, in recent months he’s been struggling to cope with excruciating pain from a frozen shoulder. The sheer physical battle of trying to cope with so much physical discomfort 24/7 put him into a very dark place mentally.
RMA – The Royal Marines Charity was made aware of his situation and after assessing his needs, awarded him a grant towards getting some treatment.
While still in pain, this has made a big difference to Taylor’s wellbeing and he writes:
‘I want you to know how massively grateful both my daughters and I am for the small grant you’ve given me towards getting some treatment. I am beyond happy that you have made it possible for me to get some help to try and ease the pain. It has and is having a massive impact on my life in a very negative way. It has halted any progress I was making towards some form of improvement since my stroke, at times leading me into some dark places. I want to get back to trying to become as independent as possible and move forward with my physical and mental health wellbeing,
The Royal Marines family is obviously well and truly up and running supporting their family, of which I am very grateful to be part of. Once again. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind gesture and help. The Royal Marines Charity is a godsend to us, thank you and your members for all your hard work.’