Thanks everyone

Hi Everybuddy

I have had ME/CFS for 6 years now and have claimed IB for five.
I have had my claim reviewed 3 times,the first time 3 years ago ended in success at tribunal, but the 6 months of confusion and stress seriously effected my condition.

Less than a year later I started on the merry ground again, older and wiser I took someone with me to Atos and was much more aware of how the Dr was leading me and putting words in my mouth and trying to rush me, I continually kept asking him not to interrupt and give me more time to answer and took that time.
My IB was continued.

Both these occasions I had support from CAB, when my review came up this year my adviser told me they were overwhelmed and at present they could only help at tribunal level.

So I joined your site,it is so helpful and supportive as well as the clear, sensible approach the knowledge that ones experiences are not unique also gives a sense of relief and comfort.

I completed the form including 12 typed pages of additional information, yes 12!
I did not leave out one single bit of info about my illness and how it affects my daily life.

When the form asked about tasks I actually went and tried them I had not realized I can not lift a full kettle I never fill it that full or how quickly I become uncomfortable sitting Id never timed it, my guesswork had been way out, in the past, my previous answers had not been accurate,I had underscored myself !

I heard back in 14 days that my benefit is to continue and up for review in 2013.
The feeling of relief is incredible.

My attitude was very different this year partly because of this site, previously Ive always been very apologetic for being sick and having to rely on benefits, this time I was very thorough filling in the form and it did take a great deal of time and energy, but once I posted it I wiped it out of my mind knowing I could do no more and Id been as honest and as helpful(exactly what it asks)as I could in completing it and that I deserved this benefit and I would just take each step with that belief in mind.

For anyone who does have CFS/ME please take time over the mental health section its so important,I have spent most of my illness thinking my emotional problems and lack of mental clarity was due to my inability to cope with being physically ill, its not, these symptoms are real and recognized and need to be highlighted, put them ALL down.
Please stay positive and best of luck xXx

Brilliant Result, AL, congratulations!
Cheers, Pen.

Hi Al

Thanks for letting us know and congratulations!!

I have ME/CFS and I'm currently appealing the refusal of DLA after no medical was even giving.
Hearing success stories of people who suffer the same as me is lovely and helps to keep me positive.

I had the pleasure of the ESA system earlier this year and although everything was on time and done and dusted within the 13 weeks I was still put in the work related group last month and if I'm honest don't have the energy to appeal that alongside my DLA.
I have to go through it all again in November as the doctor thinks I'll be fit for work within 6 months (ha!) and if I get put in the WRAG again I think this time I will appeal.

Congratulations again!