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14 months of arguing

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HI,
My story ...
two weeks ago I was finally awarded DLA after 14 months! During this time I have had to jump through hoops (I wish I could) with the DWP, applied - rejected; asked them to review - rejected; appealed - went to tribunal and was told that they had postponed (wanted more information); finally a Dr turned up one Saturday morning completely unannounced and saw the problems I have (mobility issues caused by arthritis). Two weeks latter (having seen a copy of his report which simple confirmed everything I had told them previously) I was awarded high rate DLA.

What really shocked me was the mental effect the process had on me, at 55 and workign full time (from home) I thought I was mentally as strong as an ox but having to explain and write down what I can no longer do, the problems of getting around (in detail) really brought it home how bad I've become.

I didn't realise how much of an effect the problem had on my life - you know how it is, you just grin and bear it because thats life and then one day someone says "explain EXACTLY what the effects are ...".

I'm pleased that my difficulties are now recognised but if I'd realised how much I'd have to look inside myself I'm not so sure I'd have ever started the claim.

If you're thinking about making a claim just be aware of the unseen effects on you!

Comments

  • hayley11
    hayley11 Posts: 7,627 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    Well done on getting it at last :T must have been a nightmare for you. :)
    :heart: Think happy & you'll be happy :heart:
    I :heart2: my doggies
  • sharon59
    sharon59 Posts: 1,051 Forumite
    well done for getting whay you obviously deserve.It
    :j this money saving is such fun:T
  • sharon59
    sharon59 Posts: 1,051 Forumite
    Congratulations on getting your award-finally.You obviously need it but we seem to certainly put ourselves thru hoops to get it.Having the severity or deteriation of your health laid out so blatently can be a nasty psychological jolt.However relax now -its over and concentrate on the things you can do.
    best wishes x
    :j this money saving is such fun:T
  • black_paw
    black_paw Posts: 1,791 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    well done took me nearly as long ..you just want to give up with the stress of it ... but don't.
    the truth is out there ... on these pages !!
    <3
  • foxxymynx
    foxxymynx Posts: 1,270 Forumite
    well done, I had a similar battle, took me 18 months and it was a total nightmare so tatally undersatand where you're coming from. You're right though, listing your "I can no longer do" list etc isn't good for your state of mind, it's less painfull being kicked in the teeth lol
    If my typing is pants or I seem partcuarly blunt, please excuse me, it physically hurts to type. :wall: If I seem a bit random and don't make a lot of sense, it may have something to do with the voice recognition software that I'm using!
  • Paparika
    Paparika Posts: 2,476 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Photogenic
    awww sorry you had a rough time, i've just handed in mine, and from what i can see, i shall be turned down, after all it's only a few aches and pains.. (those on the outside not from those who know)

    I have just finally handed in my notice at work as i could no longer do it, ssp is about to run out and what they offered me to make my life easier would not of been so easy ifywim.

    Well done, relax now and look after yourself
    Life is about give and take, if you can't give why should you take?
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