A VETERAN who helped military families copes with the challenges of Army life has received a helping hand from an Armed Forces charity after being diagnosed with dementia.

During her 22-year military career, Warrant Officer Sophia Krywyszyn supported families at times of peace and conflict, ensuring their mental and physical needs were taken care of.

Her welfare role included tackling issues such as domestic violence, and breaking tragic news to the loved ones of soldiers serving in campaigns including the Falklands War.

When Ms Krywyszyn, 61, was diagnosed with dementia last year she never considered approaching a military charity for help, but was delighted when the Alzheimer’s Society did so on her behalf.

Nicky Tolloch, one of the society’s dementia advisors, was concerned Ms Krywyszyn could become isolated in her rural home at High Lands, near Cockfield in Teesdale, County Durham. And when she discovered her client’s laptop was not working, she contacted the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) for help.

“SSAFA carried out an assessment and arranged for a replacement laptop,” said Mrs Tolloch.

“It’s wonderful to have achieved this positive outcome. Sophia will be able to use the laptop over the winter months for shopping and to talk to friends and family. It’s also great to work in partnership with another agency.”

Ms Krywyszyn said: “The laptop means I can stay in touch with my family through Skype and email. I also hope to get some special games to exercise my brain.

“I know what dementia is and how it can affect people. My mum had it and I looked after her for 14 years. I want to stay positive. I have my down days of course, but my dogs always cheer me up.”

Ms Krywyszyn, originally for Scunthorpe in Lincolnshire, joined the Women’s Royal Army Corps in 1972 and initially served as a driver.

A career highlight was driving a 52-seater coach to India as part of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

Mike Donne, chairman of the SSAFA County Durham branch, said the charity had secured funding for the laptop from Women’s Royal Army Corp Association.

In 2015, the branch helped 368 families and individuals access £205,000-worth of funding for a wide range of needs.

“Our door is always open and if we can’t help, we will find someone who can.”