Now for the good news...

[Sailaway]

I've posted before about the infusion reaction to Rituximab, and my worries over being dismissed from my job, all pretty negative, and you've always been superbly helpful and encouraging and positive. You've always been right too, especially on losing my job and the release that would be.

So to the good news: Losing my job was a huge relief even though it was worrying. It was like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders, just like you said it would be.

Financially it was worrying, but the local CAB advice shop and my employer have helped enormously. As a result I have been successful with my ESA application and am in the support group; I have been awarded higher rate mobility DLA with mid rate care - I have sold my totally unsuitable car and get a motability car next week; I have been awarded my occupational health pension with enhancements. Not rolling in it, but cushioned.

And then there's the persistence of my doctors to find a good solution, my consultant is holding nothing back in terms of treatment and support.

And beyond this disease, life is brilliant! I've moaned on here, but I am really happy - I'd like to be a bit free-er but that'll come.

Thanks for your encouragement, support and positive outlook - it really helps.

[Hidden]

That is good news.. did you work in occupational health or do you mean occupational/ employers pension..in struggling at work v part time.. how old are you if you dont mind me asking?.. I asked my occupational health at being "pensioned off" and she replied not yet/ not at this stage??. finances are night mare I WILL soon be down to an 18-20 hour contract as that is all I CAN MANAGE?.. AT moment im working 15 on a long phased return!!

[Sailaway in reply to Hidden]

I meant my pension from work, I didn't work in occ health. I got to the point where I couldn't get to the office any longer, a year after diagnosis, and was off work from July to February with no sign of improvement. I'm 49, and was diagnosed in July 2011.

I really feel for you, and hope something changes for the better for you very soon. Keep talking to occ health about your options. I'd also suggest you see someone at the Citizen's Advice Bureau, there may be help you're already eligible for and they can give you excellent advice. Also talk to your doctors about what the aim of your treatment is and what their expectations are (I asked every doctor I saw, it helped when I was talking to occ health). Another great source of help is Occupational Therapy (phone number from your GP), they can help with equipment to take some of the strain off and leave you with a bit more energy for work.

[Hidden]

you sound so happy sailaway, good for you in all you have accomplished. So now the next goal is that you will find a workable treatment, and with your stamina and persistence I have no doubt you will.

Well done, you really do deserve a good outcome.

[sylvi]

Lovely positive blog,well done to you. I hope your future pans out well for you.xxx

[Hidden]

Well done for turning things around so positively for yourself Sailaway. its inspiring when people manage to overcome some of the adversity RA puts in our way and your blog is a pleasure to read. Xx