After working nearly one year after being di... - Vasculitis UK

Vasculitis UK

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After working nearly one year after being diagnosed with AAV vasculities I'm may have to stop work because of my health,where do l go

essexboy profile image
4 Replies

from here ?? Can anybody help or advise me please I still have financial obligations,not sure which way to turn.

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essexboy
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Albasain profile image
Albasain

Having been in the same situation over a year ago (I was diagnosed with Systemic Rheumatoid Vasculitis, a rare condition of Rheumatoid Arthritis) I worked very closely with my manager and the Occupational Health doctor in the interim months while I went through the worse of the disease and the effects that the medications had on me. As a result they were very sympathetic and supportive. Using information I gained from Vasculitis UK, especially the Route Map of Vasculitis, I was able to have them understand more of the disease and this helped too.

Also I engaged the help of my union who worked with me and management. The intention by all was to help me return to work as I was able. Unfortunately, after a year of being on disablement leave it was agreed by all that despite our hopes for my recovery it was agreed that I should be medically retired ( I was already registered as being disabled although to outward appearance I looked healthy) Physically though, I was restricted with walking difficulties.

My experience of having Vasculitis may not be your own though and once you can gain remission of the disease you may be able to return to work although on restricted duties.

My advice is to talk with your union rep if you have one, especially your functional rep who will be more knowledgable, and also to inform your manager and Occupational Health doctor updating them with regular updates as how you are faring with the disease ( they like that! ) If your GP gives you a periodic Fitness for Work cert., then whether it is fortnightly or monthly then update your manager at the same time as you pass it on to them. Most of the time I did this by email, copying the Fitness for Work cert. and attaching to the email. I also allowed the OH doctor access to any report from my consultant. This allowed them to inform my manager as to the progress of my recovery or not as it happens. My union rep was similarly informed. This made the team. Together we all worked in my best interests and also what was best in the interest of the company. I had to be realistic in that respect as well! Teamwork is built on trust!

I wish you well and hope that you recover sufficiently to be able to return to work. It may take some time but remain positive.

If you need please email me directly with more details and I may be able to help in advising.

Kind Regards,

Dave

essexboy profile image
essexboy in reply to Albasain

Hi Dave

Thank you for very informative reply I have some more information I would like to discuss how do I obtain your email address

Albasain profile image
Albasain in reply to essexboy

Click on the logo next to my reply and it should give my contact details.

essexboy profile image
essexboy in reply to Albasain

Sorry Dave have all the info now will be in touch within the next couple of days cheers