Isle of Wight charity the Ellen MacArthur Trust is celebrating its biggest summer season since 2019.
With 36 trips, including one to a canal and day sails for young people on palliative care, last week marked the last of the Trust’s 2022 activities.
Following the pandemic-affected seasons of the past two years, a growing number of young people needed the support of the charity.
After being diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer during Covid-19, 25-year-old Chrissy was one of the 266 young people that sailed with the Trust for the first time this summer.
Chrissy (above) said she felt “more optimistic for her future” after sailing from the Trust’s base in East Cowes and spending the week with others who are literally in the ‘same boat.’
For many young people like Chrissy, picking up where they left off before their diagnosis isn’t possible. So, when treatment ends, the Trust’s work begins.
“I felt like my whole future was ahead of me and then I got diagnosed, it felt like my world came crashing down.
"I’m two years in remission now and I still feel like I’m trying to climb a mountain to get back to whatever kind of normal was.
"I feel really proud of myself that I’m managing to do the ropes and even steer the boat with one arm.
"It’s boosted my confidence and made me realise I can do anything.”
Once a young person has sailed for the first time, they can stay involved by coming back for further annual trips. Having sailed for the third time this summer, 20-year-old Josh described returning to the Trust “like coming back to your family”.
Josh was one of the 226 young people that returned this summer, having benefitted from the long-term support the charity provides.
After taking part in June’s Round the Island Race, he said: “After the last few years it felt so good to be back with the Trust.
“It’s made me realise how some limitations are now advantages.
"If I can sail, I can probably try this or do that. The Trust really helps you to push your boundaries and shows you a different world.”
For the first time in three years the charity also welcomed 12 brothers and sisters of young people supported by the Trust on a siblings trip.
Through the Trust young people are inspired to believe in a brighter future as they feel accepted, independent, and optimistic. Once they are aged 18+, they have a chance to become a volunteer.
To end an incredible summer last week, 17 young people were trained to become volunteers so they can support other young people like them on trips in 2023.
Trust CEO, Frank Fletcher, said:
"It has been wonderful to support so many young people again.
"To see our bases on the Island and in Largs buzzing with excitement for the whole summer was truly magical and a testament to the Trust team’s adaptability and commitment to supporting young people.
“Together we did it, all the trips happened and 519 young people benefitted. Thank you to every single person that made this happen.”
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