People from all walks of life join us every week. Jeremy, is one such person and is now our Treasurer. Here is his story
My journey started the day I was born. I think I was born with a desire to do everything to excess. I was a perfectionist without the ability to become one.
I was married to a wonderful woman, two great children, a good job and a nice house in a lovely village, and I lost it all. Drinking had become a problem, leading to a mental breakdown. I blamed myself, and the by now psychotic episodes led to self-harm, therefore I was sectioned.
The episodes led to voices, which I thought were real, but of course, they were only in my head.
Over a long period of time, I was helped not only by medication but by the wonderful professionals who stuck by me, and still do.During my periods of hospitalisation I was allowed to attend daily AA meetings and eventually, the message got through. I not only owe them for my life, but for giving me a new one. Many types of medication were tried until the correct ones worked, and now I can function well on a daily basis.
After I had regained some semblance of normality I was asked to help with a new group being formed – The Mix, a group of people – open to all who would come together, just to be amongst friends.
It is very hard to put into words exactly how and why The Mix works – it just does! It is so much more than an art group, a drama group, the pool tables, Citizens Advice, and if that is not enough, free tea and biscuits.
It is a place where I am lucky enough to be able to call everyone my friends. They do not judge me, nor I them. It is a place to go each week and offer help as best as I can, not for any reward. The Mix is my reward for it gives me much more than it takes.