DLA doc wouldnt listen

kilmartin

I had an assessment in the hope of getting DLA for the allegic condition I have, called MCS multiple chemicla senstitivity, most folk dont know this illness exists, its severerly debilitating, causing many symptoms, the worst now being bad chest infections. the doc didnt seem to want to listen when I tried being honest in every way I could to explain how it affects my everyday life. as Im almost housebound due to the effects perfumes and all chemicals have on my health, it also causes muscle pain, swelling in my legs and my eyes are badly affected also, he examined me and said he though I had asthma and to take my inhaler and antihistments, I told him Id had this condition since 1963 while working with chemiclals in a printing factory, and how over the years its got progressivley worse, he still maintained it was asthma and could be helped if I learned how to use the inhaler., I just gave up , docs dont want to know about this illness at all, seems to be a big cover up, Im the Scottish coordinator for a well run site for MCS not sure if Im allowed to put it on so will read the rules again. I dont see me getting DLA and will be very surprised if I do as I wouldnt tell lies about getting help around the house , only told the truth that I cant go out much due to the perfumes in shops, buses etc, everyone you go now has something blasting out at you, even my docs surgery has air fresheners, the things are lethal to all not just allergic sufferers like me. I have to use more expensive things around the house for cleaning and buy lots of vitamin supplements as well as organic food when i can afford them, so who gets this benifit I wonder, I just hope the right people are getting it.

Old_Meanie

Hello

As a veteran of the fight for DLA I completely understand how confused and angry you feel I hope the following pointers might help:

If possible seek the help of voluntary agencies which deal with claims for DLA frequently i.e. Citizens Advice, disabled helplines, council departments for advising re benefits. REMEMBER IT IS IMPORTANT IT IS NOT THE ILLNESS OR DISABLITY THAT IS ASSESSED BUT ITS EFFECT ON YOUR ABILITY TO DO THE THINGS ON THE CLAIM FORM I.E. PERSONAL CARE AND MOBILITY. You have the right to a copy of any medical evidence the DLA officers have in their files from any source. A good hint is to get your GP or consultant on your side and ask them to support your claim. On the form concentrate on the things you CANNOT DO NOT THE THINGS YOU CAN. You must say what you cannot do and then why you cannot do it because my illness means I must rest frequently etc. You must APPEAL I had to appeal and then apply again before I was awarded my full entitlement with help from my marvellous GP and consultant and local council money department. I suffer with severe Rheumatoid Arthritis and every penny counts when you are incapacitated I know. Most important never give in apply again or appeal and get someone to help you.

Best wishes and hope your application succeeds.