When I mentioned at work that I was going to join Ballycotton lifeboat crew, they were so supportive. They know that I need to go home on the dot on training days. They also know I have to eat half an hour before I leave to ensure I’m not seasick on exercise!

As you’ll read in this issue, we all have different ways of dealing with our commitments – but we all do it for the same reason. And there can be benefits.

When I trained in the RNLI College pool last Summer, I understood what it’s like to be on the receiving end of fear. I had to place my trust in the instructor and listen to his calming voice. Last week I used his techniques at work, to calm a woman having a panic attack. She said she couldn’t have gone through it without me.

I have the pager on whenever I’m off work duty. I keep warm clothes at the ready because you need to be able to move quickly. I couldn’t do it without support from my employer, or my family. I also couldn’t do it without supporters like you. So thank you for helping to provide everything we need to save lives at sea.

Enjoy the magazine!

Clare McCarthy, Nurse and
Ballycotton Crew Member