I had my DLA appeal yesterday and what a result! I was awarded HRM and MRC for 4 years, as I applied 2 years ago it will be backdated and paid until July 2013 so I will have a large amount owing to me which they told me would be in my bank in 10 working days time. I suffer from Fibromyalgia/CFS.
There were the usual 3 panel members plus a rep from DWP, it wasn't at all like a cross examination or trying to trip me up which I was expecting, they were all really nice to me and put me at ease. I think they thought that the EMP's report was full of inaccuracies and they were very sympathetic towards me. They invited my husband to add anything he felt I'd missed at the end as he was taking notes throughout the proceedings which lasted 50 mins.
I would urge anyone who feels the DWP's decision is unfair to take it to appeal, do your homework, make sure you know what you have put on your form and tell it like it is.
Thank you to this wonderful site for all the help and advice you have given me. I can now put the past stressful 2 years behind me and start to enjoy my life a bit more.