ESA

[Bigears16]

Hi got news this week that I have been put in the support group and at end of March I will receive the higher amount which I know is great news as desperately need the money as pip still not sorted yet, it’s just I got so down about it as i feel that at almost 42 I’m now on the scrap heap and useless I have worked from age 13 until November last year where I pushed myself way beyond my limits I still tried to continue working while on crutches and heavy meds for my fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis of my spine. I lived to work and I’m taking bad with now not working and accepting help from other when I used to be the one helping ( was a care manager) xx

[rosewine]

I know the feeling and can entirely sympathise. I too lived for my job I used to love to go to work not only because I loved my job and felt it was worthwhile but also the company and interaction with others. Like you I am a very independent person and hate asking others for help. I can only liken what I went through initially as a sort of grieving cycle where you go through all the different gamit of emotions. It wasn't until I worked my way through them all that I started to have some acceptance of my change in circumstances.

I often say to my husband that they could have my home, money, etc if I could have my health back. I have realised that a miracle isn't going to happen (well unless they suddenly come up with a miraculous cure and I am not holding my breath) so now try to make the best of the changed life I have. I will be first to hold my hands up and say it doesn't always work but I do have a greater acceptance now. I think it is a big psychological hurdle to get over and the younger you are the more difficult it must be. Sometimes people find that a few sessions of counselling help them to find a new path.

Thinking of you, wished I had more concrete advice to offer. I am pleased that you have the ESA and hope you get your PIP sorted soon.x

[Suehad in reply to rosewine]

Your story sounds so like mine. It is difficult to accept you can no longer work. You have to accept that you are now a different person and adjust your life accordingly....sounds easy but much harder in practice.

[Painny]

So so pleased for you, at least you have a less of financial worries when you get the highest rate, best wishes x

[Bigears16]

Thanks I will get my head round it all at some point xx