Former Mansfield soldier who tried to end her life stars on SAS: Who Dares Wins

A former soldier from Mansfield who was told she may “never walk again” after trying to end her life has gone on to star in Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins.
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Donna Watts, 36, served for eight years in the armed forces, being stationed in Germany for seven – which also included six months in Afghanistan with the Marines.

Donna, who had “always struggled with my sexuality”, came out as gay while in the Army and was named as ‘best recruit’ during her development.

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The former Mansfield Town Ladies footballer left the Army in 2010 and went on to work for South Yorkshire Police, putting her Royal Military Police expertise to good use.

Donna Watts, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.Donna Watts, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Donna Watts, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.

But during her time in the police she began to develop post-traumatic stress disorder and had a “mental breakdown” – trying to end her life, which was almost successful.

She has shared her story to raise awareness about mental health and the risks of PTSD.

“I drove to Whitby and jumped 200ft from a cliff to end my life. I was rescued about 10 hours later by helicopter”, she said.

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“Miraculously I survived, however I suffered a fractured neck and spine, was told I may never walk again, had a collapsed lung, broke every rib, had nerve damage to my back and nearly died from hypothermia.

Donna Watts, left, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.Donna Watts, left, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Donna Watts, left, a former soldier, has appeared on SAS: Who Dares Wins.

“Eventually I returned to good health, however I was investigated by South Yorkshire Police for attempted suicide and was asked to leave.”

After leaving the police Donna worked in a factory for a while and was “determined not to give up on myself”.

She eventually moved to Essex where she was offered a job as a security manager, and has since gone on to star in the Channel 4 series.

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“It was much harder than I expected but it was enjoyable, as I felt a sense of achievement and pride in myself”, she added.

“I want to show it’s possible to suffer but also to recover.

“I was always embarrassed to share my story but now I'm proud of my achievements and of who I've become.

“If I can help others that suffer then that’s what I’d love to do.”

The Channel 4 series airs every Sunday at 9pm.