Friends, family and 32 degrees of fun!

Group photo of the Behçet's friends and family day guests taken on a wooden deck with a blue sky and the tree-lined reservoir in the background.

Sunshine, sailing and shared smiles – our eighth Friends and Family Day was one to remember!

On Saturday 21 June 2025, Behçet’s UK members, along with their friends and family, joined us at Grafham Water Centre in Cambridgeshire. With the temperature soaring to 32°C, the weather was more reminiscent of the Mediterranean than an English summer!

Grafham Water, England’s third-largest reservoir, sits within 1,500 acres of beautiful countryside and the centre offered a stunning setting for the day’s programme, with our breakout room and terrace overlooking the reservoir.

Morning Adventures

The day started in the breakout room, where our guests met for refreshments and a chat before deciding which activities to choose from. The centre offered a great choice of activities that could be adapted for all abilities and levels of mobility, both on land and water. There was truly something for everyone.

On the water, there was a chance to try keelboat sailing. This was a great introduction to sailing as a group: you don’t get wet, and you can take part as much or as little as you wish. With the wind in its sails, the group experienced the joy of gliding across the water while learning the basics of sailing from the friendly instructors.

Meanwhile, on shore, others tried their hand at bushcraft. The group enjoyed the simple pleasures of outdoor survival skills: fire-building, shelter-making, and working together with nature. The wooded shade was appreciated, given the weather and the fire.

The third activity was climbing, where participants strapped into harnesses and tackled the centre’s climbing walls. With encouragement from friends and family below, climbers pushed themselves to new heights, literally, and enjoyed the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the top.

Refuelling Together

By lunchtime, appetites were ready, and Debbie and her catering team delivered a delicious spread of salads, sandwiches and savoury bites.

As always, lunch was more than just sustenance; it was a time for everyone to gather, sit together and talk. The children and young people had the chance to mix, and the adults took the opportunity to catch up and share experiences. One of the most treasured aspects of Friends and Family Day is the chance to meet others who truly understand the ups and downs of life with Behçet’s, and this year was no exception.

Afternoon on the Water

After lunch, the calm, glimmering surface of Grafham Water proved irresistible for those who opted for canoeing. Whether paddling in twos or threes, everyone enjoyed their scenic glide across the water, interspersed with some cooling splashes.

Meanwhile, there was a chance to try archery, which offered focus, precision and a touch of competition. It was wonderful to see beginners and seasoned archers alike take turns at the range, cheering one another on when arrows hit the target and playing a few games to sharpen their aim.

A short break to cool down, rehydrate and grab a snack was followed by the last opportunity to try archery and climbing for those who hadn’t already – or the chance to head to the water for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

SUP, one of the UK’s fastest-growing water sports, proved popular, if occasionally wobbly! Balancing on the boards was a challenge in itself, but many managed to stand tall and paddle with confidence. A few tumbles into the water only added to the fun, providing a welcome refresh from the afternoon heat.

Behçet’s Community Spirit

Events like this remind us all that while Behçet’s can be an isolating condition, no one has to face it alone. The Friends and Family Day is a chance to step away from medical appointments and daily routines and simply enjoy life together. It’s also an opportunity for carers, partners, children and friends to feel part of something bigger and to know they, too, are supported and understood.

Guests left tired but happy. We were delighted to receive positive feedback, with everyone saying they would recommend the day to others. Many commented on how uplifting it was to come together in such a positive environment.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing team at Grafham Water Centre for their expert guidance and warm welcome, and to Debbie and her team for keeping us fed and hydrated. I’m especially grateful to our dedicated trustees, Tony and Rachael, for supporting the day for another year and to Jean from the London Centre of Excellence, whose help on the day was nothing short of invaluable.

Lastly, thank you to everyone who came – your energy, smiles and spirit are what make Friends and Family Day so special.

Looking Ahead

After such a memorable day, we are already exploring venues for 2026. If you missed this one, we’d love to see you next time. Keep an eye out for updates in early 2026!

Gemma Darlow, Administrator

There was such a welcoming atmosphere and everyone just ‘gets it’ so you were free to enjoy the day without pressure
Hannah

Two of our friends and family guests making their way up the indoor climbing wall.

I would recommend it because it helps people to relax and have a good time.
C.P.

Some of our friends and family day guests donning their sunglasses and buoyancy aids before they board the sailing boat.

For the first time I felt understood and not alone. It was such a relaxing atmosphere and we were truly made to feel welcome.
Marie

Three of our guests taking part in archery in the indoor auditorium. You can see on of the targets in the background.

This is a great opportunity to meet fellow Behçet’s patients and share experiences. It reassures you that it’s not just you and you’re not going mad. Everyone is so friendly.