PIP

[Shirleysy11]

Hi has anybody been able to get Personnal Independance payments

[Hidden]

Hi i did. I had to wait as I'd been overseas but as iv discussed previously call them and explain, they are really nice, they will tell you how to fill out the forms if you need help which I did they told me not to worry I wouldn't fail as I did it myself and I forget things. They will probably also send you to an independent medical OT to do an assessment and I always think these people are here to fail you and say you have nothing wrong so was totally stressed but had a very nice person and passed me for PIP. I'd advise if you have memory issues to note down issues, things that affect you as stress can make you forget what you need to say. Everytime iv spoken to someone on the PIP number they have been very nice and understanding.

I hope you have the same 😊

[Shirleysy11 in reply to Hidden]

Hi thank you for you advice. I was refused PIP last sept but I didn't have my diagnoses then and the assessor didn't believe me. The whole process causes severe stress trying to fight your case. I'm also having to apply for employment support allowance as I've lost my job due to the FND I had always worked through very traumatic events in my life and it has come to haunt me

[Hidden in reply to Shirleysy11]

They should ask your diagnosing doctor for a report and it always helps to have a good GP.

Write down how it affects you Physically and brain wise no matter how minor it might sound.

I was also working when I got FND and explained how much that part also impacted me. I'd love to be working full time again and being really active.

At the end of the day they are just weeding out the fakers from people with real disabilities and FND is one

[Shirleysy11 in reply to Hidden]

I have a letter from the neurologist supporting my ESA application Which I have sent . I agree with you , going from an active working person to the extreme is an added stress and enhances the symptoms. Are you getting any form of treatment

[Hidden in reply to Shirleysy11]

Having some Physio but it's a bit trial and error depending where you live on what's available. I'm on a waiting list also to see another neuro from original one so hope that helps.

[Shirleysy11 in reply to Hidden]

I'be been allocated a physio and I've started CBT I don't know if it will work . I'm still trying to get my head around the condition . When I'm asked by friends what is wrong they look vacant at my reply. This might seem strange but knowing there are other people suffering the same illness it kind of helps me realise it's not a made up condition. Take care

[Hidden in reply to Shirleysy11]

You will get lots of replies here and support on this site. I wouldn't worry about your friends not understanding as most doctors haven't even heard of or understand it. I explain it as the brain and nerves not connecting. The FND hope website also describes it as being as debilitating as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's for those who don't believe it's real.

People on this site all have different experiences, symptoms and advice so it's great to hear from a wide range of supporters 😊