I have ME/CFS and have my ESA appeal hearing is on March 11. I am dreading it as I feel it is very difficult to prove the condition and my medical evidence is poor - the local ME clinic isn't taking new patients and I had to move GP surgeries when I moved back with my Mum. (My current GP has written a very bland letter and I'm trying to get my old GP, who knew me better, to write a letter but this may not happen in time)
Will the questions be focused on how I felt at the time of the WCA - August 2010 - or will they focus on how I feel now?
Due to careful pacing and use of some complementary therapies, I have improved over the last 6 months but I don't feel I am ready to go back to work, even part time.
I realise the importance of attending the hearing in person when there is a shortage of written evidence.
The tribunal will want to know how you were at the time of your application for ESA, not at the time of the tribunal, although how you are at the time of the tribunal can help.
If you can't get a letter from your old GP, can you get a copy of the relevant file notes? You could get on to the practice manager and ask how long it would take to get them.
