“I did it my way!!”

Rory was awarded the title of CCEA Craft winner of 2012, yet to talk to him is the most humbling experience you can imagine. Rory has managed a severe mental health condition for many years, he can recall the days in which he just longed for the day to be over, but talking to him now leaves you inspired by his positive can-do approach.

Rory lives in Limavady in a housing scheme , the sense of belonging and support both from staff and fellow residents is evident in his conversation, he also recalls that he relies on several different businesses and voluntary sources to enable him to grasp his goals, he talks of his work based training placement at KMC,

 “the boys there are brilliant!”

 “I really look forward to the craic and being treated like all the other employees”.

Similarly he talks about AMH New Horizons Foyle, its staff, clients and the activities he has used to support him on his personal journey.  He recalls all that he has achieved there, completing several accredited training programmes, work based training placements, building his confidence and getting to grips with his condition, but mainly really enjoying life again.

“ Foyle New Horizons gave me a sense of being again, it was challenging at first, but with the help of staff, I worked at my own pace and was encouraged to do it my way, that’s not to say I didn’t seek advice now and again”.

Rory continued that when he found out he was nominated for the award he was gobsmacked, but to win just completely blew him away, Rory said he never expected to go to Lisburn and be acknowledged in the awards,

“it was a brilliant experience and one I really enjoyed, it was especially good to see the trophy sitting pride of place in my mother’s cabinet.  I’m looking forward to the future , with even bigger and better things yet to come, my hope is if you are reading this, that it just might help you to do it your way ! ……….. With a little help from your friends!”