Spotlight On CCG Members :- Mr. Roger Cruickshank

Feb, 14 2017

~~Pursuing our personal goals in life is something we all want to do. When, however our interests clash with a family tragedy it can bring great sadness with our loved ones. We can revert into a shell and become socially withdrawn or, we can do the opposite and spread a heartfelt message of love to those that have been affected by similar tragedies. This week’s ‘Spotlight on CCG Members’ did just that. This is how Mr. Roger Cruickshank creatively rose above mental health.

Eleven years ago it was a very different story. Roger was living his life to the full like any twenty something young man would want to. He competed  in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turino, Italy, finishing 37th in both the Alpine Skiing Downhill and Super G events.

Once he had accomplished his  ski-ing pursuits Roger ventured into the Royal Air Force. As time progressed he improved and even embarked on a tour as a Qualified Flying Instructor. It was at that moment that his life changed dramatically.

Rogers mother took her own life. Mr. Cruickshank made it his personal decision to ‘fly the flag’ as it were for mental health and be a super advocate for those with enduring mental health concerns. He did this quite creatively by writing a book simply entitled, ‘Speed of Sound, Sound of Mind."   It was a plight to fight the ongoing stigma attached to mental health and his heartfelt response to his mother’s untimely death.

This was quite something for 34 year old man raised in Torphins, Aberdeenshire. Roger is currently serving as a Eurofighter Typhoon Pilot and living in Morayshire, Scotland. His facebook page is available to view at www.facebook.com/speedofsound2016

You can view is on flight missions and his many accolades with regards to his book which has won the hearts of  those who have a sensitive disposition and can seriously understand Roger’s perspective when it comes to mental health and the enormous loss he felt when his mother died.

We welcome Lincolnshire’s finest, CFS, RAF, Squadron Leader Roger Cruickshank to the CCG. Welcome aboard young man.