Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day

As a courageous war veteran, Dougie finds comfort, solace and peace of mind in painting following the emotional trauma experienced at war in Afghanistan and a diagnosis of PTSD.

Every year in November we remember those who have given their lives for our freedom. This is a time to reflect, appreciate and honour the men and women who went on this journey never to return. Our liberty is the gift they have left us. Remembrance Day is when our leaders bow their heads to the fallen for one minute before we go about enjoying the spoils of their sacrifice.

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This should be a reminder to us all to put our hands in our pockets and give generously to support those who have given so much for us, not just in November but all the year round.

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Dougie is one of thousands of ex-service personnel trying to find a way back from the dark side. Now, thankfully, this trauma is recognised and has a name – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

For Dougie, his condition is managed with medication and weekly therapy. His one comfort is painting and it seemed only fitting that I ask him to paint the picture, as well as a series of other paintings available as greetings cards from my Farmshop.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Dougie is a former soldier who served in Afghanistan and lives with PTSD. He finds comfort and healing through painting. I’m sharing his story because it reminds us that the sacrifices made by our service men and women don’t end when the fighting stops—and that creativity can be a powerful way back from darkness.

  • Every card or print sold puts money in Dougie’s pocket, but more importantly, it gives him purpose and visibility. Supporting his work is a simple way to show you care—not just with words, but with action.

  • Not at all. It’s about the present too. Thousands of veterans like Dougie live with the aftershocks of war. Remembering them means supporting them—not just once a year, but all year round.

  • Held on 11th November, Remembrance Day marks the end of WWI and honours those who have died in military service. It’s a moment to reflect, remember, and recognise the price of our freedom.

  • The red poppy symbolises the bloodshed of war, inspired by the flowers that grew on the battlefields. We pause for two minutes at 11am to remember those who never came home—and those still carrying the scars.

  • Give if you can, speak up when you see someone struggling, and support causes that provide real help—not just gestures. That’s what this blog, and Dougie’s art, is all about.

Supporting these charities

The Royal British Legion
Help for hero's logo
The Veterans Charity

Why This History Matters to Me

As someone who’s faced challenges and setbacks in my own life, I have deep respect for the courage it takes to keep going when the world goes dark. Dougie’s story moved me—not just because of what he’s endured, but because of how he’s chosen to respond. His art is raw, honest and full of soul.

By sharing it through my Farmshop, I want to give him, and others like him, a platform to be seen and valued beyond their service. When you buy one of Dougie’s cards, you're not just supporting a veteran—you’re saying I see you. And sometimes, that’s the most powerful thing we can offer.