Life Changing

It’s 1976, the UK is in the grip of a gruelling heatwave and fresh-faced detective, Steve Bentley is about to go undercover in a rural village in mid Wales. It’s his first undercover gig, part of a massive national operation called Operation Julie and Steve’s excited but wholly unprepared for the toll this job will take.

It’s 1988 and Steve Ellis is working on the launch of a new magazine in London, when a letter lands on his desk. It’s from his mum and the contents of that letter are about to break a 37-year silence and send Steve on a painstaking quest lasting decades. He tells Jane Garvey his story.

Mikey Allen is on a tour of duty to Afghanistan when he is caught up in a landmine blast. He is physically unharmed but witnessing the event leaves him with mental scars that look set to destroy his life. He finds a way to combat the trauma that is both majestic and unique. He tells Jane Garvey his story.Please be aware that this interview references suicide.If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, including urgent support, a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free to hear recorded information on 0800 066 066.

It’s 1996 and Jill Clark has been living in Guernsey for less than a year. It’s been a glorious summer and she is looking forward to her 25th birthday. Like for most young people looks are important to her. A journey home from the pub is about to make Jill question the importance of the human face.

From the age of two up to 16, Sinéad Browne is in and out of children’s homes and foster care. Her one constant is school. She’s regularly told she will amount to nothing but against expectations and as an act of defiance, Sinéad just studies harder. At times she is hungry and ashamed to ask for help. Years of a complicated relationship with food develop into a serious eating disorder but in spite of all this Sinéad gets herself three A’s at A level and then a law degree and a job as a solicitor. So many life experiences for a young woman but in the end it is a very simple thing, a meal, that forces a major turning point in her life. She tells Jane Garvey her remarkable story.Please be aware this edition talks about suicide and eating disorders. You can find details of organisations offering information and support with both these subjects: Eating disorders: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/2DRkg4JC7SLT3B7hlrn6DKN/information-and-support-eating-disorders Suicide / Emotional distress: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4WLs5NlwrySXJR2n8Snszdg/information-and-support-suicide-emotional-distress

In a heartfelt exploration of love and resilience, a couple navigates the challenges of caregiving and personal transformations after a life-altering diagnosis. They reflect on their cherished hiking adventures, juxtaposed with the reality of mobility limitations. The narrative reveals how an inspiring mountain view ignites hope, while community support emerges as a powerful force in their journey. Humor and connection play vital roles in sharing personal stories of overcoming adversity, highlighting the strength found in vulnerability.

Moss Hills, a cruise ship entertainer, shares his incredible story of bravery during the 1991 Oceanos sinking. He recounts the chaos of that stormy night, where he and his wife were thrust into an emergency evacuation role amid panic. Amidst the turmoil, they managed to keep calm and aid passengers, showcasing remarkable courage. Moss also reflects on balancing family life while working at sea and discusses the negligence findings against the ship's captain, adding a touch of humor to the harrowing tale.

Catherine Butler-Burns decided to become a nun aged 17. It was a shock to her parents, they weren’t especially religious by Irish standards of the time and until then Catherine had been having a lively teenage social life. But she chose to take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience because the women she saw “saving the world” were nuns.Catherine took on a role teaching speech and drama at a Catholic school in Scotland where she met a priest called Father Michael. There was evidently an emotional connection between them but it was never openly acknowledged.She lived and worked as a nun for 42 years then - aged 60 - she made a momentous decision. And what would become of the love that had been stifled for nearly thirty years?To get in touch with the programme, or to share your personal story, you can email us at: lifechanging@bbc.co.ukImage: Catherine Butler-Burns Credit: Catherine Butler-Burns

Jaina Mistry, England’s first blind female fitness instructor, shares her courageous journey overcoming a debilitating fear of dogs and a life-threatening health crisis. She recounts how a terrifying childhood incident instilled a phobia, impacting her daily life. With the help of her guide dog, Laura, Jaina transformed her relationship with independence. The emotional bond between them highlights the profound impact that support animals can have, as Jaina emphasizes how Laura has been crucial in reclaiming her freedom and confidence in the world.

Reg Mead, a retired satellite engineer and dedicated metal detectorist, shares his incredible 30-year journey of seeking buried treasures alongside his friend Richard Miles. They were inspired by a local legend of a lost Celtic hoard, compelling them to persist despite minimal search time. The duo faced countless challenges but forged deep friendships and a profound connection to history. Reg discusses the importance of heritage over wealth, the emotional impact of returning lost items, and the joy of the hobby beyond monetary gains.