Warren’s story
“Before I came to Thistle, I had leukaemia. I’d lost my job, I felt directionless and hopeless. My brother had passed away, and I hated everything. I turned to alcohol and drugs, locked myself in the house, and stayed away from everyone.
I’ve lived in Craigmillar my whole life. I always felt low potential, hiding behind walls and masks, never living as my authentic self. I didn’t have passions and had no clue who I was.”
“I always felt low potential”
I didn’t have passions and had no clue who I was.
“Around two and a half years ago I decided to try to get my life back. I was referred to Thistle’s Lifestyle Management Course, and the skills I learned completely changed my life. For the first time, I was exercising, eating properly, and not hating myself. My family were amazed by my progression, recovery, and healing.
“From the course, I found my purpose: to encourage others as Thistle did for me. That’s why I’m asking you to please donate to Thistle this Christmas, so more people like me can get the support they need to live a life free of isolation and loneliness.
“I began volunteering in Thistle’s gym and co-facilitating courses alongside a Wellbeing Practitioner. Recently, I won an award after sharing my story. It felt surreal to have this recognised with my family watching.”
For the first time in years, maybe ever, I’m looking to the future with excitement.
“Now I work for Thistle, supporting people in the gym, and I’m pursuing other interests outside of this. I’ve gone from a void of space with no purpose to feeling energised by helping others. For the first time in years, maybe ever, I’m looking to the future with excitement.
“Without your support, I wouldn’t have had Thistle in my life. And had I not come to Thistle, I truly don’t believe I’d be here at all this Christmas [2025].
“Thank you. I’ve had the ride of a lifetime getting to know myself, and I know this is only the beginning.”