”Progressive”

[vivdunstan]

I have a progressive form of cerebral vasculitis, though am doing good to still be here after 29 years! It started in 1994 when I was just 22. Hugely neurologically disabling, and progressive, despite masses of treatment thrown at it. So it was a shock last week to get a call for jury duty. I am mostly bedbound and sleep up to 18 hours a day. Luckily my good GP - the only one at the practice familiar with my 1 in a million disease, and particularly bad version of it - has now issued a letter for the court, excusing me. In Scotland, unlike in England, you must produce medical evidence to apply for excusal on medical grounds. It just struck me though that this is the first time my GP has described my disease as a "progressive neurological disorder" - the exact words he used in the letter for the court. Which it is, though even with my 1 in a million diagnosis many other patients are lucky to go into remission. We have just dealt with it together since he took on my case in 2004. But have never discussed the progressive side. But yes, got my letter! Should be excused from jury duty. I had a big fish and chip takeaway and some beer tonight to celebrate. Even if I'm still progressive! But happy.

[Mooka]

pleased you have such a supportive GP. You’ve done so well to get this far.

[vivdunstan Volunteer]

I've just heard back from the court this morning and am now permanently excused from jury duty. Phew.