David Etale
In this issue, we meet British Army veteran and ADVANCE participant David Etale. David was injured in 2009 by a roadside IED while on patrol in Helmand Province. His injuries led to years of rehabilitation and, in 2016, the amputation of his left leg. Recently, he spoke with ADVANCE’s Jodie Stevenson about his transition to civilian life, recovery, and the support of the ADVANCE study.
The Transition to Civilian Life
“Since leaving active service in 2017, life has been tough—I won’t lie,” David begins, speaking candidly about his post-military transition. Like many veterans, he faced the dual challenges of coping with physical injuries and the mental toll of service. “Mentally and physically adjusting to a ‘normal’ way of being has thrown many challenges my way. I have experienced PTSD, pain, and trying to get used to life with my disability. But with the help of my psychiatrist and sheer perseverance, I’ve been ticking off one day at a time.”
For a time, he worked as a motivational speaker, sharing his insights on adversity and resilience. Yet even then, he knew he needed to focus inward. “Deep down, I hadn’t come to terms with everything,” he recalls.
“I felt I hadn’t figured out my way or purpose in life yet.”
The turning point, he shares, was recognising the importance of taking care of himself while staying mindful of his family and their well-being. “I made a conscious effort not to bring them into a dark place. That’s when I tried looking at life differently – focusing on myself and spending time talking to professionals (if I felt like it)’, he laughs ‘If I didn’t, they understood.’”
The Role of ADVANCE
For David, the ADVANCE study has been an integral part of this journey. “I decided to get involved in the ADVANCE Study back in 2018 because I was more concerned about my health as an amputee,” he explains. “I’ve had a chance to learn so much more about my body—things I wouldn’t necessarily have thought about before. Bone mineral density, blood sugars, weight-bearing information—it’s all been really valuable.”
David highlights the unique support he’s received from the study. “I learn new things each and every time I come,” he says. “The nurses and team provide practical information throughout the day and personally, I have gained a lot through that.” Beyond the health insights, the study has offered a sense of purpose. “The elements that keep bringing me back are the key findings and the pace at which the study is going. It’s all helpful, it’s all been set up for a purpose”
Reconnecting with Purpose
Over the years, David has worked to rebuild his confidence and adapt to a new way of living. “You can be trained to go to a war zone, but you can never be trained on how to come back home from one,” he reflects.
With time and commitment, David has found his foundations. “I realised I love holidays and doing amazing things,” he shares with a smile. “To do all of that you have to re-connect yourself with civilian life. Stop worrying about what people may think or say and go out and meet new people.”
David’s advice to fellow veterans? “Pull your chest up, say, ‘I will live my life and my truth,’ and that will get you through.”
A New Chapter
Today, David lives in Edinburgh, a city he’s come to call home. Recently, he started a new role with Edinburgh City Council, where he drives an automatic truck four days a week, collecting commercial waste and refuse.
“It’s a new challenge, and so far, so good,” he says. “Returning to work has been a big step, but it’s reminded me that new challenges can be good for us and not too daunting.”
A Message to Fellow Participants
As the festive season approaches, David has a message for his fellow ADVANCE participants.