‘The first time I spoke with Yas I knew that not only was she creating something special at her retreat but the benefit that it would give some of our lads from ANDYSMANCLUB. I attended the first one with my colleague and both of us were very nervous about what to expect. Within minutes of entering the family home we were made to feel a part of the family straight away and that led to an amazing weekend of self discovery. I know I grew on that first retreat and even seeing Kenny grow and learn to cook and challenge himself was amazing. The biggest challenge with anything is that first step into the unknown but everyone on the team helped take those steps. Such a special place to hold the events as well which makes it even better.’ Alex AMC
“I never said anything over the weekend as I wasn’t ready to share, but the main reason my anxiety was so bad was because on the Monday before the retreat I was at the funeral of a young person that I worked with/looked after. She had been with us for over 3 years and had only moved out to her own flat 6 months ago. She was my key child and it hit me so hard. I didn’t think I would be in any state to participate in the retreat. I’m so glad I decided to push myself. From the hug Yaz gave me on arrival to the friendly welcome from all the other attendees, it all made me feel welcome and started to ease my troubled soul. The food throughout the weekend was absolutely amazing and helped bring everyone together over mealtimes. The stories that were told over the weekend were so inspiring and all aimed at helping us heal. The views were amazing and just breathtaking at points. On Saturday evening I was heading to the barn to get a cuppa and spotted the sun going down over the hills, I ended up standing watch the light change over the hills for 15-20 minutes and never noticed the time passing. I did so many firsts over the weekend and learned so much from everyone I talked too. I left the retreat feeling the best I had since the news broke of the passing of the young person. My batteries were recharged, my soul less troubled and I had made some great connections. It was my first ever wellness retreat and the community and friendship shown by everyone guarantee it won’t be my last.”
Darren AMC
“For me the most stressful part was the unknown of camping. I had my case setup as if it was 2 weeks abroad. The drive up was relaxed and hearing some of the stories from the previous year helped. Arriving there, the views were out of this world. Such beauty in our own back yard. The weekend itself was incredible. So many personalities just getting along. So many different stories but one thing in common, well being. I met some incredible people and learnt a lot of new skills but the main thing I will be taking away from this; Family comes first and you look after you when you can. I need to learn to stop over complicating everything including my life. I came home a lot more zen and I intend to continue that. I have even been wild water swimming since I came back and I plan to keep going!”
Cameron AMC