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Date: 22.08.2009
From: Jill

Subject: Disability living allowance

Hi guys....just to give out this info again...usaually our Lynnne does it, but shes not intoday so im goona mention this again!....for all our newbies, and our younger members did u know U can claim for a benefit callled Disability Living allowance.... U Must claim for this, but also when u get the forms, Huge as they r, answer as best u can.....but mention ONLY the bad days that u have.... so remember those nasty days where u r in agony....telll them how it is, not that u have a goood day, cos then U wont get it....they do their best to avoid giving it out, and if u do happen to get a NO.....dont give up, get GP, Rhummy to fill it out, they will do that for u..... the way to get what U deserve is to tell them how this nasty disease affects your Normal day..... compare your day to say your m8s that dont have this disease....they r far better offf than we r.....so Y shouldnt u have a type of compensation for this Intrusive, Insidious Painful disease..... we ALL deserve this benefit, the govenment put it aside for us....but its Up to YOU to claim, and to Moan if u dont get it....DO NOT give up at the first hurdle....... trust me, if u dont get it, when u deserve it, it will eat away at you, U will; beocme angry and then U will realise that U r all entitled to this benefit.....it does NOT affect anything u receive ok.... i.e. if u have other benefits... u can also work and still get it....so Val get Claiming Honey!!lol x ps its not means tested ok....aslo if a family r on Tax credits, U can ring up and tell then u r Disabled and guesss what, u get extra cash!!! I know, cos I get it....do it now/welll monday6 when its open, cos its closed on sat nights LOLOL
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: val h :-)

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi there is a sight called benifits and work that got good tips about filling them in like if u have to sit at bus stops or lean on trolly while shopping
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: Jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

have u put in a claim Val?
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: val h :-)

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

no u know me got a shock when looked at some of things they sugest as already do them will as and when need to just love filling forms in lol
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: Jill;

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Filll it out Girl, U deserve it...i get full amount..£.455 each month.... worth apppying honey x
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: val h :-)

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

nearly as much as i earn lol glad u get it u have so many probs without money as well
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Date: 22.08.2009
From: j

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

clda earnt treble that tho val....at least i get summat..... u can still appply...worth a shot.....ok mgotta go bedski ...nite gals xxxxxxxxx
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: Lynne

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

We need to claim this guys and gals. We keep mentioning it in here cos nobody else tells you that you can claim it. It s hard filling in the form but well worth it. don't be put off if you don't get it the first time, they nearly allways turn you down. keep chipping away at them.
its also a good idea to get another agency like the C.A.B to hep you fill it in. they can be more objective and tell it how it is cos we sometimes tend to do down our symptons, and say its not so bad.
as jill says put down the names of all the docs,nurses, physios, even work collegues who can tell them how bad you are. the more info the better. verbal diaohrea is what you need.

dont forget to photocopy it. one in case they loose your form the other because you need a record for when you have to resubmit the claim so you know what you put down.
don't forget more info the better. tell them every little detail its not pleasant faceing up to your illness in that kind of detail but it is necessary. Get claiming now!!!!!! end of my soap box rant xxx
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: jeanette

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi i am goin to claim this i got a very helpful book from the national ra assosiation lots of tipson how to claim just ring up for it its a free info pack
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: Lynne

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Go for it girl and let us know how you get on . it helps others in here understand the system nad help them claim. xxx
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Jilly Kicks this into Top slot.....here goes Bumpy bump
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: vicky

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I claim but i only get middle rate care but am currently appealing due to the fact i have not got damage in my foot which resticts how far i can walk and i crnt drive cuz of the pain. Not looking forward to my partner going back to p/t work soon im gunna b house bound :(
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Date: 30.08.2009
From: Lynne

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sorry to hear that sweetheart. Sounds like your meds are not under control think you need to see your rheumy soon for new meds bye the way what you on. ????
Take care xx
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Date: 02.09.2009
From: Edna

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

We've got this made such a difference to our pension. You've got to apply before you get your pension though otherwise your not eligable to get it there's an age cut off I'm lead to believe. So don't leave it too late to apply we just scraped in luckily we had some help and advice from an advocate. I think that's what you call them. Anyway don't put it off or you won't get it.
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Date: 10.09.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Three months ago I applied for DLA with the help of my local disability information centre. They were great and very informative. Today a Doctor came to my home to undertake my medical, it was a long process he stayed over 2 hours going into great detail, I am on a lot of meds... Now I guess its just a question of time to see if I am successful. It's really helped me reading what other people have gone through on the forums, so many thanks to you all and good health.
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Date: 11.09.2009
From: val h :-)

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi hope u get it ,two hours is a long time for them to be there let us know how it goes
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Date: 11.09.2009
From: Jules

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi mgt pleased you've joined the forum there are some nice people in here. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. It helps others who are new to claiming to understand the process. Good luck fingers crossed for you. Take care
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Date: 19.09.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I have received notification regarding my DLA application and have been awarded both the carers and mobility components. As I write this there is a sense of relief that this process is over but also the realisation that I am in very poor health. (I have RA and fibromyalgia). I have been on steroids for a long time and now have been started on Azathiaprin but for the last three days have been suffering with sickness and diarrhoea, does anyone know if this is normal? Thanks for your support.
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Date: 19.09.2009
From: val h :-)

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

great about dla sorry about rest take care
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Date: 19.09.2009
From: Bernie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Well done Mgt1234 in getting your dla, it's so hard to get. I've applied for mine again, gor refused twice, but like yourself,I suffer with firomyalgia and oa, so I'm hoping I get the dla.I'm crippled at the moment. I'm afraid I dont know anything about Azathiaprin, but I would be so grateful if you could give me some advice on fibro, I'm very new to it and I am so frustated about everything. Thank you in advance.
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Date: 20.09.2009
From: Mgtt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Bernie

I am so sorry to hear that you have been refused twice, I truly expected to be refused just because I had heard so many sad experiences from people applying for DLA. There is a very good forum on fibromyalgia http://www.ukfibromyalgia.com/forums/
I have found this helpful. There is also a book I bought which provided a lot of answers to my questions title: The First Year Fibromyalgia by Claudia Craig Marek, I bought it from Amazon it wasn't expensive and is easy to dip in and out of, which I am sure you know is beneficial to people with fibromyalgia. Lack of energy and concentration is so frustrating, in addition to the meds for RA I get so puddled that I forget to take tablets and have even taking the wrong tablets, so now I made extra effort to concentrate and together with my husband I get it right. Please know you are not alone (I know at times it can feel like that). Take care.
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Date: 20.09.2009
From: bernie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thanks for that mgt1234, I will look for those. If you don't mind me asking, how did it affect you? At the moment for me,I'm in awful pain from the waist down, I can hardly sit, walk or any thing else. Painkillers are s***,going to see rhummy next week, don't know what he is going to do, but I'd say I'm gearing towards the injections, God I hate them, but maybe I'll be able to walk if I get them. What treatment r you on? If I'm prying I'm sorry, it's just that I would wanted to hear from someone first hand. I'm running out of patients at the moment.
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Date: 23.09.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I have had numerous steroid injections this year 7 up to now, they do help but only for a few weeks (for me) and then the pain is back with a vengeance. I have been on Prednisone for 2 years, together with tons of other meds. The Azathioprin I stopped yesterday I couldn't cope with the severe diarrhoea and sickness despite more meds to stop it happening, it couldn't be controlled, so half a stone less and feeling like a weeping willow I called time on that drug. The fibromyalgia and RA are challenging conditions on their own but together they make a formidable opponent. My neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists and fingers are very painful. so movement is restricted, I drop things and can't open things. My spine, hips, knees, ankles and feet are also very painful, which means I can't walk more than a few metres. I said to my GP that pensioners overtake me, he suggested antidepressants, I know he meant well, but that wouldn't change my circumstances. I have worked all my life in the NHS and know what is possible and what isn't, so I hope for a miracle. My husband says to focus on what I can do and not what I can't ... God bless him. He's the one that keeps me going and of course the support of my family and friends. I haven't mentioned the tiredness, the muscles aches and pains, the headaches, tinnitus, the forgetfulness, or the exhaustion because I am sure anyone reading this would think I was lying. So apart of sharing this with you I don't normally tell anyone. After all who would believe such a list of complaints. The one saving grace is that we live in a time where medical interventions are improving, aids are available to assist and we have a roof over our heads. So I live for today and don't worry about tomorrow. If I were to give advice to you it would be to stay strong, don't give up and do lots of research yourself into what you can do to help yourself. And for the things you can't do, find a way around it. Love Mgt.
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Date: 23.09.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

MGT ((((hugs for U))))I would be shocked if anyone in this forum thought U were lying.... reading your post was as if I had written about myself....how u tell it, is how it is for me....people mite know that u have 'stiff joints etc' but its so much more than that....as u mentioned they tiredness, fatigue, bad memeory(for me its terrible) the failure feelings we feel, temdonitis, I suffer with tht terrribly....I understand u, I beleive U, becos its happeneing to me too... Having both Fobro and R.A. is dreadful...like u I have Reiters diseae(reactive arthritis) which left me with inflam arthriits...but also I have ligament probs. tendonitis, 7 ops due to corrective surgery, and im due antother spine op, as I also have DDD(for peeps that dont know that Degenerative Disc disease)...my discs r being eten away due to the Reiters..attacks all the soft tisssues...US lot in here will always beleive U.... we all experience different type of pain and issues.... people that dont understand our conditions, unlesss we teach them, they wont ever know, lucky for them.... but lots people. even family domt get it!!... im on antidepressants, due to the anxiety...never be ashaned If u need anti depressants ... our brains have so much to deal with.....anyway, U keep your chin up...I also want to ask u(being lazy due to fatigue) so can U remind me the meds U r on?

I am on Methrexate and Enbrel....since being on these meds, sysmtoms r so much lesss....less falre ups, and when i get a flare up, its less intense...they have saved my life...not without pain, dont get me wrong.....but im at a level where I can copw with my diseases!

take care
Love Jill
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Date: 23.09.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Jill,

At the moment I am on Prednisolone, Azathioprine I stopped yesterday, ibandronic acid, (for osteoporosis)calcium and ergocalciferol. Lansoprazole, cyclizine, tremadol, co-proximol. I think that's it at present. I am seeing my GP tomorrow, so will see what tomorrow brings and I am having a minor op on Friday if all's well with my bloods. I will then have to go on antibiotics for a little while. My Rheumatologist suggested Methotrexate if the Azathioprine didn't suit but I haven't heard of Enbrel. I would welcome your thoughts. Thanks for caring.

Love Mgt.
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Date: 24.09.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

enbrel is the Anti TNF Biologics meds....u have to be assessed by Biologics Nurse, set up by rhummy....meds cost ten grand a year...so ya gotta be bad....must go....gooogle the enbrel...will tell u all u need ok xxx
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Date: 25.09.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thanks Jill. I spoke with my Rheumatologist today and have an appointment in the next few weeks to discuss options. Take care.

Mgt.
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Date: 26.09.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

brilliant MG...let us know how u get on

Jill
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Date: 29.09.2009
From: Sas

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Had another letter today from DLA just a one liner " Sorry we haven't made a decision you will not lose any money but will have information for you soon" Der!! it's becoming laughable now.
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Date: 30.09.2009
From: Della

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi girls just to let you know i heard today from dla and i have been awarded it i am so pleased it will make my life a bit easier now been really struggling. i got the highest mobility and middle care so i am well chuffed. sas i had 4 letters and a phone call so i think its the norm at least you know they are looking at it how long ago did u applie?, mine took nearly 4 months but at least they back date it so thats good. anyway thankyou all for encouraging me to apply i didn't even know i could thanks girls xx
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Date: 30.09.2009
From: Della

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

opps forgot to ask when i filled out the forms i put down my details of bank accound for it to be payed in there i think it gets payed on a monday so do u think i will receive it this monday coming it didn't say ? .
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Date: 30.09.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas they always send that one lol.... its normal....but daft huh? hope ya ok x
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Date: 03.10.2009
From: Sas

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Had letter this am been turned down....:-(
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Date: 03.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Im so sorrry Sas, truly.........APPEAL! that happenend me most of us in here....they turn people down, Y I will never know, Monica might have a good idea Why ? I reaplied, gathered more evidence, put in the worst days, well everyday I put down at the worst say, there wastn any goood days at all!!.....Hard to stay positive, but there r some posts ion here, where memebers have said they were refused first time, but got it the 2nd, its like they dont want us to have it!....More paper work I Know, but do it Sas, will work out good in the end.....after they first refused me, and eventually I got DLA, they put me on the lowest theye cld give....I was grateful at that time that I got anything!, but over time, and more probs, amd more pain, and ops, i got angry and put in another claim, they refused for me to get more money, so I took them to a tribunal...... I won!! felt amazing, becos I know I deserved it!...... so there u r, dont give up the fight ok!! Promise me ((((((hugs 4 u sas))))) xxx Love Jill xxx
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Date: 03.10.2009
From: sharon

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

sas i been turned down so i am appealling it takes time and you need your gp to support you but if you dont try you never know get cad or some other organization to help you they better at dealing with these things plz dont give up we entitled to money lol
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Sue Bevan

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi All,

I have just been turned down too, the reason was because even though i find it very hard to stand I can still sit down to cook, I dont need anyone to lift me out of bed and lastly even though i find it extremely hard to walk at least I can walk a very short distance even if it is very slowly. What a kick in the teeth, I get so cheesed off with things like this, I just give up.

Sue
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Della

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I'm so sorry you have both been refused i was truly expecting it as well and when i did get it i could of jumped for joy if i could have. I suppose i am one of the lucky ones although i would rather not have all this pain but please try again like Jill said x
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: sharon

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi sue that is basicaly what they told me but i got letter from gp and various other reports get cad to help you aand either reapply or if time not run out appeal i think they hope you going to give up but with this condition you are entitled to it so keep fighting lol
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Monica

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi All
Sorry ladies that you got turned down for your DLA.
When you are filling out your form, they are not really looking at what your disability is, but what you can and cannot do for yourself. You should always put down your worse day scenario, even if that day you feel you can walk miles, or jump a fence, (Even though we know we cannot), if you can cook, wash yourself, can walk around without help , (watch the distance) it does not matter what the disability is, they will not consider you. Get your gp to help you fill it in, they are the ones who know what your true problems are, coming from a gp stands you in good stead, even though you know yourself what you can and cannot do for yourself. If you appeal, it can take months, then if that is turned down, you can apply again in 6months, unless that has changed, i am not sure, they are always changing the goal posts. NEVER EVER put you can cook for yourself, you cannot, you use a microwave to do a meal, this is not counted as a proper cooked dinner, you cannot wash yourself properly, you need help to wash whatever. I have just filled out a DLA form for a friend of mine. They usually pay DLA every 4 weeks on a Wednesday, but it might differ according to where you live, and you will get it all backdated, they send you a letter telling how much they have paid you up to a date, then as from you will next be paid every 4 weeks. At christmas you get a £10.00 bonus. Hope this helps.
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Sas

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thanks Monica for info Thanks Jill for encouragement...and everyone else.

I am going to appeal... feel a bit fed-up today My hip is painful and was all night couldn't lie on it never had this before :-(
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas when u mention the washing bit again.....tell them U DONT wash, that U use Wet wipes as its far easier, causes U lesss pain.... sometimes I have to go for days without a shower, or a bath... I use wet wipes, at least I feel a lot cleaner than if I didnt bother.....but all this helps them realise how bad u r.... U need assistance like Monica said, U use the Microwave, and ready cooked meals, U CANT ude the Cooker, as its tooo low...I can barely bend to open the door, times ive burnt myself bad, just trying.... tell them U NEED help turning over in bed at night and to get partnber to help Readjust ya duvet becos ya hands hurt..... its all those things they want to hear, how U cant sit for long, then U cant get out of chair unless someone drags u to yoiur feet..... same for bedtime....same for the Loo.... absolutely everything.... U will get it next time, im sure.... goood luck ok and dont give in.... Sue Bevan Im so sorrry....pleae reapply......stay pos....the moeny is yours, U r entitled to it..... fight again ok....
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Dellla......did i read u right...u got your DLA????
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas when u due to see your Rhummy? if its a while yet....go seee your GP, get it on record thqt your Hip is painful.... he might be able to inject it for u too....im goiong tomoz to get mine injected again(steroid) im sure its my Bursa again.... so sore, wakes me up, then cant sleeep, the circle goes on......lol could u imagine us lot living in a dormotory......at lease we wldnt get bored....half of us crying, half of us larfing, half of us with Insomnia and on verge on breakdown, rest of us walking around like zombies....... know im trying to make ya larf....but seriously Sas, report to ya GP...he can also expedite ya appointment...xx
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Sas

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Jill you did make me laugh! I saw the Rheumy last Monday next appt 4/01/10 but he did give me helpline to ring if any particular joint painful and I can go into day surgery for cortisone inj.
The problem is I am off the MTX at the moment so the arth is kicking in again - big time!!! AF's aren't enough are they??
You are a star Jill thank you for your support and advice and everyone else as well

((((big hugs)))) xx
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Date: 04.10.2009
From: Sue B.

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thanks for your support everyone, i will fight it and Sas i hope you get your DLA too.

Take Care all.

Sue
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Date: 05.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas awwwwww u made me blush!! lol....i do my best.... that or go mental again!! lol....AFS are deffo NOT enuff...they are not enuff just being on MTX...Y arnt u on decent painkillers like Pain patches.....zomorph.... diazapam if u need them for musckle spasam..... is it poos u cld have a word with ya GP Bosses?? see if ya gettting the correct treatment etc? take care ok xx
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Date: 06.10.2009
From: Nutski

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas what painkillers do u take?being nosy again x Jill
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Date: 06.10.2009
From: Welshwitch

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Etopan XL 600mg Jill

BTW you confused me with Nutski lol

x
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Date: 06.10.2009
From: Jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sas lol dunno wot that is, daft of me to ask really, does it have morphine stufff in it? and does it help ish?? LOL Sas i get so fed up typing in my name, plus my frigging name is always up on posts, hate it....shows u wot a sad sack o sh** I am pmslomaoooooooooooo, always in here!!!!
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Date: 11.10.2009
From: Della

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Jill yes i did get it i was so surprised and really pleased i was so sure i would get refused like most ppl but hey got it. Thankyou so much for telling me to go for it i wouldn't have known bless u xxx
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Date: 11.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Della, At least im useful to some people LOL.... so glad u got it, becos u deffo deserve it, all the the memembers in here that have applied deserve it, its so sad they have been refused... anyway I had a text from val, shes relaxed and happy, so thats fab....della remember when U first came in here and val and u joined around about the same time? I remember val with pain, but she had , like yourself, over the months got soo bad!!!...now u see y us lot in here find it hard to try and ask the right question when people say how long will it last, i guess in all thruth Della, its years , isnt it....but we control it as best we can with the Meds.... God knows what id be like without those meds...so plsease please go on the MTX, u will get this rotten disease in b etter control ok..... take care sweetie, love to all xxx
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Date: 13.10.2009
From: Della

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thanks Jill for the reply x
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Date: 13.10.2009
From: karen

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi i have claimed for this a few months ago when i started seeing a rhumy nurse and was put on mx am still not good its in my hands and feet really bad that sometimes cant even walk down stairs and i just got it so thanks guys as would never of claimed it if not seen it on here as it will help towards hospital cost petrol and a few things i gotta buy to help me use my hands better so its worth claiming
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Date: 13.10.2009
From: Mgt1234

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Congratulations Karen, I am delighted your claim was successful. I was awarded DLA just over one month ago, it makes a real difference, and hopefully our outcomes will help others to have the strength and courage to apply.
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Date: 13.10.2009
From: karen

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

even though the money doesnt stop the illness it just helps towards little things that we need to ease the pain do you know how i can get a badge now to help park nearer a shop as walkin is still diffcult 4 me
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Date: 14.10.2009
From: MOONANGEL

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

HI guys just found this forum, i was diagnosed Arthritis of my spine this year ie my facet joints, the MRI scan that i had confirmed this. Shot to hell my facet joints are lumber area. I have had 28 weeks SSP pay which run out in July, the last day i worked was 16 Jan, i do not know much about DLA only what i have read on net. I have today sent off for the forms to fill in. I had an injection in my spine this May injections in my spine not something i would like to remember, they did wear off, and last Thursday i had 2 more. Having the Injections did work for me, but i am unable to have any more. The next big stage for me is going into hospital and them putting hardware into my back, oh the thought of it. Having this in my back has made me hand my notice in today. I am very sad about leaving work. The pain well, you guys on your laptops know know what i mean, any help would be fantastic. I do not know anyone that has what i have in my back so i can't ask my friends. I have just turned 50. All i can do is fill out the form and see. Will let you know how i get on. Hope to hear from anyone who has been given DLA, who has Arthritis in facet Joints lumber.
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Date: 14.10.2009
From: shaz

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi moonangel dont know anything about the kind of arthur u got but we got a lady that will probably be on later that can more than answer your problems about back arthur so take care and watchout for a posting from our jill she will fill you in lol
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Date: 14.10.2009
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Moonangel, lovely name.... (shaz lol thanks for the into x)

ok my names Jill...Im riddled with artha from neck to my toes with infamatory arthritis..... I also have DDD degenerative disc disease, which causes my spine to be riddled with arthritis, ive lost 3 discs in my neck and 3 discs in my lumber spine...I have spine op 2003 an op they call Dynesys(instead of fusion..... unfortunately, due to DDD and Reiters disease, my discs get eaten away, hense the spine op, I have 4 bolts, like a scaffolding support.....but now they want to do fusion, remove the previous bolts and fuse my lower spine....I do not know much about facet joint probs, but as far as im concerened back pain is back pain is back pain, its nasty and terrible what ever back pain we have, Im so sorrry that I cant help u with your particular condtion, but I do know and understand that U r suffering badly...... what type of pain killers r u on? im on Zomporph, they help lots, im never pain freee, but they help me so much, they r slow release morphine, Im also on very toxic meds Bilogics that make me unwell, like most of us in here with the dreaded artha!....I do feel for u....what can they infact do for u op wise? ive also have threee spinal probes, injections directly into the spine, and ive had vcarying degrees of help, one lasted 6 months, another lasted 6 weeks, and I had one in march this year, and wore out by three months..MRI showed disc has gone...Im going to have my op, going to be a nitemare, as my soft tissues take tooo long to heal thanks to the Reiters disease....... please stay positive and please apply for DLA, u deserve it....U mist tell them your worst day, but tell them its everyday, or u will not get it.....it has to be difficult to wash, so tell them U cant, and U use wet wipes or something, flannel etc, becos U cant stand in a shower for long, or get into a bath....all these things contribute to whether they decide u r bad enufff to get it! daft huh..... also tell them that ur partner has to wash u, dress u, cook for u.....please read the posts on DLA, they r so helpful and read the one Monica also posted...she gives tips there to help u fill out the forms....... dont give up, if u dont get it, re apply..... take care and please let us know what u decide xx
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Date: 18.04.2010
From: dan

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi,the arthritis forum is all new to me,but reading your posts,gives me a sense of strenth,in knowing there are people who are helping each other through those difficult painfull times,well done.iam currently awaiting a appeal tribunal.with ostoarthritis lumber spine.sciatica like pain in my hip,left leg and left teste.anyone with simler,symptoms.i can barely move with pain.
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Date: 18.04.2010
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Dan - have you seen a Rhuematology Consultant yet ? you sound like I was a couple of years ago and after 18 months of attending the Rheumatology Clinic I've just been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. And I've got AO in my spine as well. I'm NOT saying you have it just that the R Clinic does more thorough testing than the GP does, with blood testing/Xrays and scans.

Edna - I think when a person reaches pension age the DLA changes to AA [ Attendance Allowance]. This is what happened with my Mum anyway.
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Date: 18.04.2010
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Dan welcome, Most of us, if Not all r helpful and supportive to each other, no matter how much pain each of us r in, however, we do get some Idiots in here, and I cant tolerate them(incase u read a recent post i just typed to a rather ignornat twit!!.... I agree with KayJay Dan, I cant add any more, accept ive had spine surgery, and need fusion now, so I do understand the pain sciatica gives, and back pain does travel to the hips too!!....get a referal from ya GP asap....let us know how u get on...tc Jill
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Date: 20.05.2010
From: Sandra Bartrupe

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Everyone, I have just been diagonised with Arthris in the hands and knees,this mean that i now have to go and have a full knee reconstruction and a partial knee reconstruction. I have pains in both hands. Just need to know if there is anyone out there that can direct me to the things that i need to do. I have just received the DLA1 and 37 pages to complete is going to be gruelling. Looking at all your post so thought i would just ask the question.
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Date: 18.10.2010
From: Brenda

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

TO JILL
It is wrong to tell people how to claim DLA by telling them what to say - you tell them to say they use wet wipes because they can't wash and that they can't cook.
You are telling people to LIE.
No wonder it is so hard to get DLA when people are telling lies about their condition. If people were honest then the ones who deserved it would get it.
What you are doing is WRONG.
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Date: 18.10.2010
From: belle

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Brenda, in defence of Jill, I think she is just saying what she has to do and giving examples. I think DLA are so tough they can see through people who aren't being honest.There are probably more people who don't get it or who under claim than the opposite. My mother wouldn't try and claim for the higher care rate when she was really bad during the last few years of her life as she thought they might reduce what she already had. She was completely disabled with arthritis. Couldn't do anything for herself. I don't want to go for the higher mobility for exactly the same reason even though I can't walk.

Also, you've bumped it up! You could have left it lurking about at the bottom of the heap!
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Date: 19.10.2010
From: athena

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi

im newly diagnosed with RA have started meds but working part time at the moment,i get tax credits for my son as hes at college,my question is if i ring up the tax credits and tell them i have got Rheumatoid arthritis they will pay me more money? do you need dr's and or rheumy letters to prove i got it? this thread is very imformative i dont know anything lol x
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Date: 19.10.2010
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi if you want to claim DLA then I would visit a benefits advisor/citizens advice bureau. If you get working tax credit and dla they increase the working tax credit as well and you don't pay for prescriptions/dentist etc. I'm not sure about child tax credit so it's best to ask an advisor.
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Date: 19.10.2010
From: c

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I work part time also i have sero neg arthritis with me still working part time then can I still claim DLA I didnt think i could does my RA have to be seriously bad Or do i claim when i got diagnosed???
I didnt think i was entitled to anything at all it hadnt even crossed my mind till i saw this post
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Date: 19.10.2010
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

It depends if you have difficulty walking you may be entitled to the Mobility Component. Don't know about the ' care ' part of dla because I can care for myself.
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Date: 23.10.2010
From: Lorraine

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Everyone just come accross this forum i have had RA for 8 years , going through a bad flare up since Dec 2009 have got so depressed everything aches, i applied for DLA this year got turned down went to appeal got turned down again now i am waiting to go to tibunal so scared about that i feel that i am going to just sit crying and what if when i go i have a good day and they think i am just a scrounger ! i desperatly need the money to be able to get some handrails and a shower cubicle fitted i feel sick at the thought of the tribunal
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Date: 23.10.2010
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Lorraine you don't have to go through this yourself you can have help from the Citizens Advice Bureau . When I went to the Tribunal the CAB lady met me there and gave me moral support she was lovely. Although they arn't allowed to go in to the actual Tribunal with you it helped me a lot to know someone was there to guide me through the procedure. If you are still turned down [ like I was ] then you can make a fresh application after 3 months. Try not to worry about it - they are only human - just like we are ;0)
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Date: 15.11.2010
From: tim

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi 2 any one who can help me ive got arthitis of the spine, i was dianose with it a few years ago, by blood test and a x ray, and found out i had it, i when bk 2 the doctors and all he gives me is pain killers and their r no gd, he doesernt offer me any more help and he hasernt told me what sort it is but can any 1 help me, i can be normal 1 time then other times just going 2 reach something and can colapse 2 the floor with great pain, and in bed 4 severl weeks it takes me alot of time 2 get bk on my feet again, my partner helps me get dress and put my shoes on, and i crull on the floor and up the stairs, does anybody know what sort of arthitis i have thankyou.Tim.
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Date: 25.11.2010
From: Terry Winkle

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Try reading this article, it may help.

http://hometreatment.net/home-remedies/bones-muscles-and-joint-problems/home-treatment-for-arthritis/
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Date: 21.12.2010
From: Joyce

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

What they dont tell you,is after your 60 you cannot claim,DLA but you can claim Attendance allowance which is exactly the same but a different name.you cant also claim carers for over 60 but if you apply and on pension credit you get about £35 per week extra pension credit.
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Date: 21.12.2010
From: Dell

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Sorry Joyce. If you go onto the direct.gov.co.uk it says under 65years to claim DLA. Sorry again but thought you should know.
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Date: 05.02.2011
From: Lynn

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hello My Husband has just been turned down for DLA. He has rheumatoid arthritis...hands shoulders hips and knees and is on methotrexate..8 per week and 6 tramadol per day.He is also a diabetic on tablets. Although he is so much better than the dark days last summer when he was in so very much pain, couldn't do anything for himself (I could write a book of how we managed between us) He has now gone back to work on light duties to make ends meet. Things are still at times very hard for him and has pain in joints most evenings, gets very depressed as he is not able to do what he wants when he wants and life now cannot be planned in advance.If he had been awarded it then he could have gone part time or even given up altogether as I work ends would have been met. What makes me so angry is that never in 44 years of married life have we ever claimed a thing.Sorry for this rant but I too get very down and upset for him
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Date: 05.02.2011
From: bsk

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Lynn, he should appeal and go to CAB for support and advice with that. The fact that he is depressed is a vital contributory factor and should be emphasized as points are awarded for that. Please appeal.
xx
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Date: 05.02.2011
From: davina

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi lynn i was turned down and asked for them to look at it again.
you could appeal too
i was awarded high mob and middle care.
good luck
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Date: 05.05.2011
From: chell

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hiye della my name is michelle im currently in the middle of filling in the forms for dla but the man i saw at cab wasnt really that helpfull in explaining about the diary yes he told me to write down how i am at my worst days but do they know you attempt to wash the pots but need to rest or that you dont do them at all and about going shopping and the hardship it has on you even packing the shopping into bags please email me the diary is confusing and i really want this dla ive had oa 26 yrs
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Date: 05.05.2011
From: mads

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

just realised you can get this even though yu work - my question is if i apply today i am in pretty bad shape but if when i go on to the metx medication all my symptons should be less would i still be entitled to it?
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Date: 05.05.2011
From: kazzie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

i claiamed this when first got ra and got it straight away now i have to re apply and am scared to death they will take my car as i cant drive anymore but my partner takes me everywere and am on enbrel injections and mxt injections and loats of orther meds .but thats my worry is now as am feelin a bit better cause of meds will i lose it ,a nurse said i shouldnt cause its only the meds keeping me going without them i would be back ill in hospital.and still cant do what normal people do .but am so worried bout this ,jusr wondeering if anyone like this thanks
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Date: 10.05.2011
From: lisa

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hello my name is lisa just waitng for a answer now from the dla as my gp has sent the report back was diagonsed with degrentive discs 2345 in april with two discs moved towards my stomach i sent loads of paper work spinal specialists scan results even my application for rehousing accessable housing register how do yo think i stand with this i also have depression phobias do you know of anyone on here thats been awarded this for the simular condtion as my pain is bascially 24 hours a day
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Date: 10.05.2011
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I dont think any one can tell you the answer, its better to just wait and see. If no is the answer you have to appeal. If the answers is YES well done. If i had my way you would get all you deserve. I am waiting for an appeal reply. I was awarded the the low care componant, but i feel i need mobilty allowance more, so on with the appeal. Good Luck!!!
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Date: 10.05.2011
From: Dilizjo

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Brenda, Do you actually have any of the issues that people on these forums have and feel the pain and utter frustration that the condition brings? Nothing Jill has said is lying at all it is true we all have bad days which for many outwiegh the good days massively. So telling the truth about how we have to manage on bad days is right because I am sure that on good days the majority of sufferers are like myself and tend to climb mount everest which leads to another flare up so please do not label any of us as liars, this disease is not self inflicted and cannot be cured it has to be managed and tolerated.
So in my humble opinion you owe Jill and the other posters on this site an apology.
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Date: 10.05.2011
From: Sean

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Lorraine (23/10)

This may be too late but ask your GP to make a referral to occupational therapy for handrails and adaptations as you may be able to get help with this, you may be able to get a disabled facilities grant for the shower, if you don't ask they won't offer, the OT should come out and do a home assessment
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Date: 10.05.2011
From: LISA

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

DO PEOPLE KNOW WHATS IT LIKE TO LIVE WITH CHRONIC PAIN I WAS ONLY DIAGNOSED WITH DEGRENTIVE DISC DISESESE THIS APRIL AND HAVE HAD CHRONIC BACK PAIN FOR 11 YEARS AND YES YOUR SO RIGHT THIS IS NOT A SELF INFLICTED ILLNESS ITS WITH US 24 HOURS THE ONLY DAYS THAT I AM OK IS WHEN I TAKE PAIN KILLLERS WE ARE NOT LIARS WE ARE HERE TO ASK QUESTIONS AND GET ADVICE ON PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM PAIN AND DISEASE OF BACK CONDTIONS AND ANY TYPE OF ARTHRITIC CONDTIONS
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Date: 11.05.2011
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Dont let it get to you. People have no idea how bad a day can be for us. If you was to tell the DLA how you feel after pain meds this is not a true you. Its terrible the way the DLA put us all in the same box, each one of us is different. Ticking boxes is not the answer a list written by ourselves and a letter from our consultant or GP would be a fairer system. I am appealing my case at the moment and it is stressful and it makes me feel nervous filling out the forms. I would like to say when you have never relied on benefits its like a foreign lanuage. We need support from all directions its such a testing time getting your head around the diagnoses and the pain. I know all about your back pain i have had surgery and my back pain is still getting me down but i have been told its as good as it gets.I have the same problem in my hands wrist and feet. Oh for the love of my friend arthur. Take care.
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Date: 11.05.2011
From: diane

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi ,my 13 year old has just been turn down for the first time by the dla. He has idiopathic juvanile osteoporosis, which has resulted in him having serveral crushed fractures of the spine,so he is in a great deal of pain all the time,it also affects his hip,ankles,chest bones.Every three months he goes in to sheffield childrens hospital for treatment,and every six weeks for physio in sheffield too,which is a bit of pain as we forty odd miles away we do how ever get transport but they say that short term only,he goes to our local hospitals pain clinic, he also has asthma its costing a bomb in taxi fares,he cant go to school and hasnt for months because of the pain and walking more than afew yards makes it much worse,so i wonder if anyone can advise me what to do,should i ask them to look at it again or send more doctor reports first,this is all new to me so i would be very grateful if any one can help.
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Date: 11.05.2011
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

ask them to look at it again and any further reports you get you can send this on as and when you get it. Dont leave the appeal, do it straight away i made the mistake of waiting and had to start out all over again. I wish you all the luck in the world. Sending love to your son XX
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Date: 11.05.2011
From: diane lynne grogan

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Marlene thanks very much, will do that and see what happens take care xx
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Date: 13.05.2011
From: amanda

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

my wife has a full wrist fusion ... and can not do day to day things as its such a struggle for her , she cant also when on her montheys put in a tampon and remove it i have to ... so why cant she get middle rate dla?
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Date: 13.05.2011
From: cookie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Amanda thats awful for her care doesnt get more personal than thats it apauling that you olny get middle rate x
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Date: 18.05.2011
From: Lee

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I apologise if this is a silly question.

From what ive read it seems im slightly lucky as my PA is arms, wrist, hands elbow related on both arms and at the moment they dont hurt that much but mainly because the amount of meds i have to take.

On top of this and with atm major depression im unable to work due to a pysical and mental illness.

I work for a insurance claims company on computers all day.

Is this covered under DLA or is there anything else i might be able to get to sort of ease money worries of not working and cant say how long before work get annoyed with me
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Date: 17.11.2011
From: russ

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hello can any body help i have 3 level degenative disc disease i came out of work 2 years and had been getting dla higher rate care and mobility up until last month when i had it taken away from me can somebody give me advise weather i can still get it for the condition as i am still with the medical condition and still in a lot of severe pain thanks
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Date: 18.11.2011
From: Dilizjo

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi, I am sorry to hear that you are suffering at the hands of this inane government.
Firstly have you had an ATOS assessment?
Have you appealed against the decision to stop your DLA?
Are you in reciept of ESA? DLA has nothing to with any entitlement to any other benefit and is not means tested.
I can see no reason if your condition has not all of a sudden cured itself why you have been refused DLA, but the government is on this mission to cut benefits and tbh it's from the most vulnerable such as yourself.
If you haven't appealed against it you need to get form GL24 and put one in asap, detailing very clearly your reasons and send any evidence you have to support your case. You normally have 1 month in which to send an appeal in but they will extend that if you push for it, and keep at it 40% of appeals are overturned.
Keep us updated and any advice we can give we will or point you in the right diraction to get the info you need:)
Take care xx
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Date: 09.01.2012
From: debra

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

my husband has terrible arthritis in his feet and legs, spurs growing on his heels , high blood pressure and cholesterol he has sleep apnea and diabetes and he still got turned down for DLA even though he can barely walk and is struggling to work. any tips for what i can do he is in constant pain
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Date: 14.02.2012
From: anita

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi i was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my pelvis 18 years ago then my back used to collapse a few times a year and i have had 5 children in the last 24 yrs they are all grown up but my back has taken its toll on me then 5 years ago i had an mri done and was told i had degenerative disc disease and a few other things i had to have a wallis implant put in my spine to cushion the diseased discs as i used to have pins and needles running up and down my legs also for a few years when i had my op it seemed to worked but gradually over the last couple of years the back started to get worse you take the pain killers also running back and forth from the doctors and my last bad episode was 5 wks ago i was just picking up my dressing gown off my bed when i had this sharp stabbing pain in my spine and collapsed on my knees on my bedroom floor i was there for an hour as i couldnt get up had to wait for some to come home when they helped me up i screamed ive never known pain like it my husband took me to hospital i borrowed a wheelchair for 2 and a half wks i used all the medication they give me which didnt really worked but i took it now i suffering terrible headaches which i had for 4 weeks now i was wondering if thats anything to do with my back also has anyone else on this site has had these headaches ive gone back to work but i only work 15 hrs would i be able to claim disability living allowance
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Date: 14.02.2012
From: Tracie W.

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi all, firstly I think this is a great site and very helpful.

Here is my story, as a child I had Perthâs disease, so I have always had pain in my hip area but just lived with it. The last couple of years I have had terrible pain in my lower back and hip have got progressively worse. So I applied for DLA last September and was refused. I lodged an appeal immediately, and lost that too today.

I have been diagnosed with Arthritis in my lower back and hip area after having 2 MRI scans, I am in absolute agony and taking every pain killer you can think off.

However my application for DLA was refused, I was also diagnosed with a lateral tear in November .But the panel said this was irrelevant as were any documents from my doctor because they happened after September, it was also irrelevant that my condition had deteriorated.

I felt humiliated today, the carer on the panel an Asian lady on the very over weight side said to me, if I can crawl in to the kitchen, or crawl up the stairs I donât need any help, I nearly burst in to tears. She told me to get out and exercise more it was astonishing.

I showed a bruise on my leg from a recent fall but no one was interested, I explained I have fallen numerous times when my hip suddenly gives way with out warning.

Apparently if you can limp,crawl,or hobble your not entitled to anything.

Where do I go from here I feel very depressed.

Any advice would be very much appreciated.
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Date: 07.03.2012
From: s david

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi i have osteoathritis in my neck the pain is so severe my dr says at least 7 bones are affected so far with different levels of athritis would i be able to put in for dvla? i am in employment atm but have only worked one day in the last 4 weeks due to the pain and honestly believe i will have to give my job up as i really cant cope with the pain
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Date: 23.03.2012
From: jane downes

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I have just been diagnosed with rhuematiod arthritus feel devastated plus i am sick of the bloody pian no sleeping or able to go to work anymore has a chambermaid i feel my future is looking bleak
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Date: 23.03.2012
From: Colin

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Jane , bit of a shock being told you got RA , it dont mean you have stop working & not lead a normal life , it may take time to get it under control but the outlook is lot better than 20 years ago with so many new drugs out now
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Date: 29.10.2012
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

iv had osteoarthritis for nearly 20 years, iv just turned 50, and seems that, as soon as i hit the big 50 it has attacked me with a vengence. im struggling day to day,and have had to have time off, from work. iv just had a appointment with a rhumatologist, been waitin for for ages, as im at the point where, im collapsing, falling over, becomming dependent on my husband and daughter..which i hate as im a very independent and often stubborn person..lol im waiting for a appointment for a MRI scan. Twenty years ago i was diagnosed with this arthritis. as it got worse, i was signed off work and was awarded incapacity benefit, which i was on for for 5 years Then, they told me i didnt need it anymore, so i had to go back to work as a carer, which made it worse, had x rays 6 years ago, consultant said, i didnt have any arthritis at all...i was gobsmacked, i had been taking anti inflamitries for over 10 years, which had caused alot of abdominal problems...i just put my bad back pains to just getting older, although the pain was very painful ..then, i had x rays 4 weeks ago, after ending up with breathing problems because i heard my back "crunch" and couldnt move my back...and the results are...moderate to severe degenertive disease...o/a....so now i have it again lol....the second x ray was definately not mine...iv just been prescribed with a anti depressant(amiltriptyline) i think...which am very reluctant to take. But since reading this forum, i think i will try and se if im entitled to dla..although i dont think ill be entitled to it...iv always worked, but dont seem as bad as most of the lovely people you have on this forum,..thanks .....sue
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Date: 30.10.2012
From: Two hip replacements and still going!

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Make sure when you apply you fill it out for your worst day not how you're feeling that day.
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Date: 30.10.2012
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

ihi two hip replacements and still going....i received the DLA forms through the post this morning...seems quite daunting....had drs appointment this morning, and is making arrangements with the impact team, to supply me with a walking stick, as im a shuffler, and tend to not feel my legs at times, and hit the deck with a bit of a bang, and unfortunately, just cant get myself up..Thanks for the advice on filling out the forms...although, i dont hold out much hope, but thanks , will let you know how i get on..any advice would be so welcome, as im not very good at filling out forms...thanks so much for the advice x
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Date: 30.10.2012
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Sue, if you are phased by the forms try citizens advice bureau, I have read on the forum many times they are a great help. Wish you luck, take care
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Date: 31.10.2012
From: bsk

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Sue, I back up Marlene's comment.

Amitriptyline is given as a pain killer in small doses (100mg is anti depressant dose I believe.) It works very well for pain but do take it early in the evening as it can leave you a bit groggy in the morning. However, your body does adjust after a few weeks.
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Date: 31.10.2012
From: paul

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

amitriptyline is an anti depressent and will knock you out if given in a high dose (over 50mg). you do get used to it but it can make you feel like a zombie when you wake up and you dont feel quite that with it but it does help with the pain and allows you to sleep.
i found that i couldnt dream on the drug and if i missed a few days and took it again i felt more out of it than before.
i've stopped taking it now for months and feel a lot better for it plus my dreams at night are back, amazing what you miss.
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Date: 31.10.2012
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi all...just a little thanks for all the advice, im going to fill the DLA forms out tomorrow, i will take all the advice given on this wonderful forum..im still a bit aprehensive about taking the amitriptyline, as i still have to go to work, and working with children with special needs, i have to have my witts about me...i only work 3 hours a day,..i escort special needs children to school on the school bus. thank you all for the great advice, its much appreciated, i must admit, im feeling a bit more confident in filling the forms out, but as quite alot of you have been turned down for DLA im not holding out much hope.
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Date: 01.11.2012
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

thank you marlene, i have taken all advice from the forum on board, and actually sent the forms off this afternoon....thank you all for your advice..ill just wait for the reply, with my fingers crossed xx
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Date: 01.11.2012
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Well done you!!!! good luck Take Care x
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Date: 03.11.2012
From: Lynn

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi sue good on you for filling the forms out its a start if it comes back saying you have been awarded nothing which is what happened to me just send it back asking for appeal I did this and got a phone call later to say I didn't need to attend appeal they had changed it to low rate care and high mobility for 2 years which I was ecstatic about I have the forms in again though as they send the renewal forms in about 6 months before renewal so I'm dreading the whole process again but if anything my condition has got worse so I'm hoping I still get something, as for the amytriptline I would suggest taking it early in the evening around 8 or something in a few weeks you will get used to it but I feel if I take it too late at night I'm quite groggy in morning and feel as if I've not slept but they do help you to relax and sleep a bit.

Hope this helps and good luck
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Date: 03.11.2012
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi lynn and marlene, thanks for the words of encouragement, well done lynn on getting you dla...i didnt know you had to reapply for it after they award it to you...im a bit niave when it comes to any kind of benefit..but im so pleased you have been given it. just keeping my fingers crossed, as i sit here with a hot water bottle on my back, trying not to ,move..lol...thanks lynn and marlene xx
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Date: 11.01.2013
From: Rah

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Dear Friends,

Just need some advice, my 10 year old child has suffers from tendonitis/arthritis. His joint hurt all the time and he can't do sports etc.

Do you think he would get DLA?

Also i hear the DLA form is long and complicated. Is there any organisation who can help to complete the form?
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Date: 12.01.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

You don't say what Arthritis your young son has. Sorry to hear he is in pain.
It would very much depend on his circumsatnces, you might try the Citizens advice Bureau.
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Date: 13.01.2013
From: mary jones

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I am claiming lower rate for depression but have now been diagenosed with spinal arthritis and degenerative disc aldong with arthritis in both my knees, i completed the form on line and put that i needed help to get into and out of bed along with help to get onto the toilet etc but they have down me down but kept me on the lower rate for my depression and completely ignored my replies about my arthritis what should i now do, i would be grateful if you could give me any answers,

Kind Regards
mj
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Date: 13.01.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Have you filled in an appeal form? You could take advice from citizens advice bureau.Do you have any written medical evidence you could send to them.
I don't know much about the system for claiming but on reading posts on the forum it seems it is difficult to claim DLA as the goverment are making it more difficult.
Good luck
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Date: 15.01.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi there, im still waiting to hear about a decision for my DlA claim...been waiting since the middle of november. Since the claim was sent off, they have contacted my consultant and g.p. Luckily enough, during this time, i have had my MRI scan, and the results show, that along with the osteoarthritis, that iv had for 18 years, i have multiple degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. Im waiting for a facet joint infection, and a epidural spinal block, to ease the pain. The dla wrote to me last week, and said that they are still looking into my claim....somehow, i just dont think i will receive anything. Today, i am officially a silly cow...lol...after a few months of putting a hot water bottle directly on my back, to ease the pain..my husband was horrified, when i asked him to scratch my back, .....it was horribly mottled, dark brown....apparently burnt my the hot water bottle....how stupid am ii eased the pain with one thing, and created another problem...the motto to this is....please, if you use a hot water bottle to ease the pain, please cover it with something...i didnt feel no pain, nor discomfort...just beware and be safe....thanks alot for all the help and advice i have been given over the months xxxx
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Date: 16.01.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Sue, ouch!! I use a hot water bottle but it came with a pretty cover so fortunately I have never burned myself but as you say a big WARNING to others. Good job your hubby noticed before too much damage was done. Take care
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Date: 21.01.2013
From: DELL

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi everyone try this site http://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance/thank-you-esa
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Date: 14.02.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi marlene, just an update on DLA got a letter 2 weeks ago, to tell me that i will be getting a home visit soon.., i contacted them today, and they told me that they are dealing with a backlog, and will soon be getting back to me..this has been going on since november..lol...from what iv read, it appears that most people get turned down for DLA on ther first attempt, but i will be appealing against it, as at this point in time, im getting worse. Was measured up for a stick ....heard someone sawing in the room...and whallaa one of the impact team gave me this stick...which resembled the trunk of a small tree..lol..ooooh dear...it was too short..lol...anyway...will keep you posted...when i get the visit...take care everyone xx
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Date: 17.02.2013
From: dell

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

this site has all the infirmation you need for free-http://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk.
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Date: 17.02.2013
From: Margaret B

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

HI

Yes, we all should claim for the DLA. I found Age UK very good. They visited me and filled the claim in, they know how to word things better than us. I was rejected the 1st time and got it indefinitely the 2nd time. Keep persevering if unsuccessful.
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Date: 19.02.2013
From: ritchie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi there i was wondering if you could help.
i have been suffering with lower back pain for 2 years and just got diagnosis from specialist saying i have facid joint osteoarthritis degeneration. ive just got myself back to work but only part time (its all that i can manage..just.) im 29 years old and have read alot of different things about claiming.
basicly am i able to claim dla?? theyve granted me disability tax credits and blue badge has been accepted but can i still able to claim dla aswell.
ive had the steroid injections but they dont really help alot and doc has mentioned nerve degeneration or possibly a cage.
has anyone had any of these procedures and do they help?
im just so worried as my doc says im the youngest hes treated with this amount of degeneration but not sure what to do
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Date: 20.02.2013
From: rhona

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Ritchie,

I think you might get a better response if you start a new thread. Sorry to hear that you are suffering so much. I hope someone can give you some advice regarding your condition.

Good luck.
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Date: 20.02.2013
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi ritchie

you could try DLA , most people are having trouble getting it at the moment as they have tighten it up & going to replace it in next year with PIP

alot of it depends how far you can walk ( less then 50meters with pain that forces you to stop )& how much help you need with personal care & how long your condition will last , you could ask CAB if they think you have a claim & if they do they may help you fill the form in

cant help you much with your back problem
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Date: 22.02.2013
From: kym

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi, i wonderd if anyone can help me, i am 48 and have sufferd back problems since i was a teenager, in the last ten years it got progressly worst inthe last 5 it got even worst and is now effecting my hips, legs and feet, my legs keep giving way and i colapse,for the past 3 years, i was finally taken serious i have arthritis in my spine, lumber facet joints, i knew i couldnt do a 9 to 5 job and decidid to go self employed from 2009 running a market stall for 2 days which i then cut down to one, as it was proberbly the worst job i could have done due to my condition, as 1 days work would take me 3 to 4 days to recover, i know i cant do this work anymore and have today claimed sick, so i can hopefully eventually claim disability, i have no idea how it works, i presently receive working tax credit and child tax credit as my son is still in full time education now that i have applied for sick, does working tax credit and child tax credit automatically stop, i dont know when and if i would get sick benefits(sorry dont know the benefit name) or how much i would get, i also dont know anything about any of the disability entitlements i would be entitled to, please help.
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Date: 22.02.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Kym, you should go to Citizens Advice Bureau.
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Date: 02.03.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi marlene, just to let you know, im having a home visit from DLA tuesday morning.I dont know why, but im feeling so nervous, im sitting here with a hot water bottle on my legs, as they are so painful today. My G.P. has told me that, iv got carpel tunnel syndrome in my L arm, so thats painful too..but, god only knows why i feel so nervous, i feel like a naughty school girl waiting to see the head mistress.....usually to receive the slipper..lol....thank you all so much for the encouragement, to apply for DLA, your words, and tips have been extremely appreciated, i will let you know in due course what the desicion will be, although i dont hold up much hope, as i filled all the forms out myself...maybe not such a good move on my behalf, thank you all very much xxx
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Date: 20.03.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi marlene, just to update you on my DLA claim. i recieved a letter this morning, from the DLA about the decision on my claim...and cannot believe it, i have been awarded high rate mobility,low rate care componenet, they will renew it in 2014, and also a free tax disc for our car....i only just paid for the tax disc...suprisingly, i didnt even know that they did free tax discs.. I cannot believe it, as i filled out the forms on my own, and didnt hold out much hope. i cant thank you, and the rest of the people on here for all the advise and help i have been given over the past few months..once again, thanks so much sue x
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Date: 20.03.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Sue, well good for you well done!!!
If they are giving you free car tax then you can cash in your car tax (I think). I didn't know they gave you free car tax. Something to remember. I am happy for you sweetheart. People need to understand more about this awful thing we have to put up with day in and day out. It is hard for all of us and it does help when we can afford to buy the the things that help us out. I bought what they call a soft touch potato peeler it cost me £9.80 against the normal £2.99 one. All these little things add up and are costly but they are so helpful.
Enjoy your extra pennies. Take Care xxxx
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Date: 20.03.2013
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi sue , well done getting DLA , the level they have given is pretty standard for arthritis , as for the car , you can get your free car tax , send off the DLA to get the forms & then you can claim any outstanding months left on your existing car tax

in 2014 they will be changing over from DLA to personal independence payment ( PIP ) so everyone will have to renew it anyway
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Date: 26.03.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

thanks marlene, and colin, for the advise given to me...I cant believe they have given it to me..i really thought that I would be turned down, seen as I filled the forms out myself and everyone was saying that they have cracked down a lot on people claiming. I was all ready to start the fight for an appeal. lol. anyway, thanks for all the help, im going in as an outpatient on the 13th april for multiple disc injections, and an epidural spinal block.....I am really nervous about having them,...but its just another hurdle to get some relief awful disease..if anyone has had these injections, did they make any difference to the pain?...and were they painful...I know im a wimp..lol ..thanks take care people xx
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Date: 08.04.2013
From: margaret

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I claimed this and much to my surprise in 2011 got the mobility part which suited me because that is my worst problem. My condition got so bad that in March last year 2012 I had a total right hip replacement, in July last year they re-assessed me and even though I was on crutches couldn't drive or bathe withdrew it, I was so upset and felt such a fraud that I did not appeal, my condition has now got worse I suffer from extreme fatigue, pain in my other hip fingers and knees and constant dead leg,I am undergoing tests for arthritis in my spine and lumber region, my doctor says he was not contacted regarding my claim and has advised me to re apply but I'm scared I will get knocked back again.
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Date: 08.04.2013
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Margaret, I can empathise with you...most of the time I don't walk, I shuffle,....I also am completely shattered when I only do the smallest of things, that a few years ago, I wouldn't batter an eyelid at. Only this Saturday I went shopping, and met my daughter in there (im so stubborn, that I insist on just getting to the supermarket on my own, as I feel like a child, being shadowed by everyone,as, I have fallen over quite a few times, by my useless legs.)I ended up nearly icapacitated for 2 days, in constant pain, because of my stubbornness. I have spinal stenosis, and severe degenerative disease of the lumbar, and can sypathise with the pain your in. Please appeal against the discision, I have only just been awarded D.l.a. after being diagnosed with the disease over 20 years ago. You must fight for your right to appeal, go to the citizens advise bureau, im sure they will help you. Its about time, we, who deserve D.L.A. shouldn't have to fight for it, I wish you good luck Margaret, and will be keeping my fingers crossed.xx
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Date: 08.04.2013
From: bsk

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Margaret, you should reapply but get some support from CAB or other organisation to do the forms. Don't look at it as getting knocked back but another chance to claim a benefit that you are entitled to.
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Date: 19.04.2013
From: lisa

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

jill i have osteoarthritus in my knee ive sent for my forms but not qiute sure il get it could u give me a bit of advice on what u put down .x
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Date: 19.04.2013
From: kazz

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi i have sero negative inflammatory arthritis first claim was turned down last week i have asked for a reconsideration due to themnot even going on my gp report as its still sitting in her office ... i also have been asked to go see dr about the result of my mri on my back .. hopefully dr will report this back to dla when she fills the form out ... my ? is i was also turned down for esa but won my appeal wednesday would this help if i sent a copy to dla ? thank you
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Date: 27.04.2013
From: charlotte

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi all sorry to hear what you are all going through i am in a similar situation i am 25 with really bad back pain and sciatica and left hip pain i have seen doc numerous times but pain is getting worse my sciatica used to come and go know its constant getting numbness in my foot and my ankle feels really tight i have been given co codomal 30/500 diclofenic and amtrptyline on these every day i have problems with walking cant pick up my kids camt put my shoes or socks on its really bad i have put in a claim for dla to so waiting to hear back soon my partner helps me constantly and i feel useless i see a physio every 2 weeks and know been reffered to pain management this has been going on for years and nosign of it getting better
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Date: 01.05.2013
From: alec

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I am due to have a wrist fusion, do u know if this would qualify me for dla?
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Date: 02.05.2013
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Alec , to claim DLA , it comes in two parts , getting around & care

for getting around , you either need to be supervised for your own saftey when out or your unable to walk more than a very short distance without the need to stop

the care component comes in three parts , to need care 24 hours a day ie night time for the highest , to need help cooking for the lowest level .

if you ever want to claim DLA or the new PIP when it comes in talk to CAB & they can help with forms & advice you if you have a chance of winning it

as a guide , any joint replacement/fusion they would claim there is no problem with those joints , realy depends on what other joints you have problems with
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Date: 07.05.2013
From: michelle

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

i am 36, have degenerative disc disease which i have had for approx 13-14 years, along with fybro, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, and gout, i applied for disability back in november, was turned down asked to be looked at again they turned me down again, i have asked it to go to tribunal, but it is so draining, it seems they disregard anything i have told them
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Date: 07.05.2013
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

michelle , the CAB are very good with helping to deal with tribunals , they seem to be tightening up with DLA & changing it to personal independence payment ( PIP ) & will become very hard to get then
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Date: 07.05.2013
From: marlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Reading all the posts on here lately it seems that every one is having a difficult time with claiming DLA. I have a feeling it is all down to the changes that are happening. I don't know what makes you a candidate for DLA to be honest. If you read Colins posts it seems it is based on your abilty to walk and take care of yourself.
You need to ask yourself can you walk, do your own shopping, cook a meal if the answer is yes you probably wouldn't meet the criteria. If the answer is no then you need Drs letters proof of medication and a full description of your needs and the help you are getting. If you go to the tribunal make sure you have all the information that is relevant. Go to CAB for help.
Good luck!!!!!
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Date: 08.05.2013
From: michelle

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi colin thanks for the advice. I have untold letters and "proof" that i am not a fraud, which is exactly how they make me feel, my gp supplied all hospital letters, test results and wrote himself stating the medical condition, but they are still basing their decision on the ATOS report (carried out for ESA) which to be honest is little more than a pack of lies! Or the so called examiners recollection of our meeting is completely different to mine.i was put in the WRAG but am trying to get into support group as due to being contribution based my benefit would stop after 365 days and apparently i will be better and fit for work!!!
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Date: 13.05.2013
From: kazz

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hii was turned down for dla i have sero neg arthritis and 2 prolapsed discs..i have asked themto relook at my claim as i juat won my esa appeal too .. howmany people have been awarded if you ask themto re look at your claim please
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Date: 10.07.2013
From: keeleigh

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi,I have juet been diagnosed with rhumatoid arthritus and I'm 26..I have a appointment with a specialist this month and have been giving tablets mainly naproxen...that don't seem to help..cann any one help with some advice please as to what the stages are etc pls..thanks
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Date: 11.07.2013
From: Eve

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Keeleigh, it may be better for you to start a new message thread so it draws attention to your question so you get more answers. I'll look in later after work if I can x
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Date: 18.11.2013
From: ginny bailey

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

can i claim it as i can still walk and work, but am in agony after a 7 hr shift where im on my feet most of the time, and wxhausted as well.?
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Date: 19.11.2013
From: BJ

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I get the lower rate of DLA but I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and I was wondering would I be able to claim the higher rate as it really affect my walking and sleeping.
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Date: 21.11.2013
From: carlyb

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I'm 30 with 3 kids but by husbands work I don't at present would I be entitled x
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Date: 08.12.2013
From: tasha

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi my daughter has recently been diagnosed with anti ccp positive polyarticular jia at the age of 4 do i need letter from doctor to claim dla and do i need to be in receipt of dla before i ring tax credit
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Date: 08.12.2013
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Tasha , realy sorry your daughter got Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis , they are doing very good things with the treatment of arthritis so hopefully they will get it under control

I am not sure how you would get on with DLA & they are changing it to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) , I would talk to your occupational therapist at your rheumatology unit or ask your consultant about help getting DLA for her
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Date: 15.12.2013
From: janine stokes

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Was diagnosed with cervical degeneration last year. Just recently my knees are in agony
Do u think I have any chance of claiming pip
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Date: 15.12.2013
From: julie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I tried to claim but was turned down, even though my husband was doing practically everything at the time I couldn't walk or use my hands to do anything. They said there was no reason why I couldn't buy things to eat to make a meal, I presume they meant ready meals.

Couple of months later I retried for the PIP but that was three months ago, I got a letter reminding me to send my form back - which I did day after I received it - so I presume this has got lost somewhere at the claim office. So if anyone is sending in a claim for for any benefit I would strongly suggest sending it by recorded delivery that way you have proof that they have received it.
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Date: 18.06.2014
From: darren

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

im 40 diagnosed with arthritis in my feet i want to carry on working even though im in pain as i just feel im far to young to give up, so my question is do you think i can make a claim for disability living allowance
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Date: 19.06.2014
From: Sandy

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Darren ... you can apply for dla & still work .. its not means tested ... i claimed dla for 7years & still worked (i did reduce my hours) . .be prepared to be refused at 1st attempt and appeal ... its a long winded process !! ... good luck xx
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Date: 04.08.2014
From: jackie hartley

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Can any1 help me plz I was diagnised last year with rheumatoid arthritis in my fingers wrists an feet its now spread 2 me shoulders an I feel my hip I still work but find it difficult as I walk 2 work an use my hands an arms at work as I am a carer wud I b entitled 2 dla or wud I b wastin my time?
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Date: 05.08.2014
From: Julie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Jackie, put a claim in you have nothing to lose by trying.

Its not DLA now its PIP (personal independence payment) it is a lot more difficult to get now it has changed to PIP, you have to score at least 8 to qualify. If they turn you down on your first attempt try again, you will have to be assessed, by a nurse or doctor and they send in their report, it can take quite a few months to sort it out, but if you get it you will get money backdated to when you first claimed.

If it is difficult for you to wash, dress and cut up food say so. I had to show how I managed to do certain things. You will be asked how far you can walk because they have a limit of distance and it isn't very far. I don't know if they ask your employer how you manage to do your job.
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Date: 22.08.2014
From: michelle whyte

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi there..my name is michelle and i have double hip bursitis and fibromyalgia is it possible for me to claim?? i work part time but i can leave my shift crying with pain..i dont sleep because of the pain and take morphine..solpadol..diclifenic.amyltriptyline. trazadone tramadol..can anyone help
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Date: 26.08.2014
From: teressa mclaughlin

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi michelle imyself suffer from fibromyalgia and siatica ialso work part time i applied for pip but i was refused, but i am not giving up reading all these storys is made more determind so go ahead michele we are entiled to it i am not taking no for an aswer why should we.
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Date: 07.11.2014
From: Thom

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Wondering if someone could help me?
I've got reactive arthritis, i've had this for nearly 3 years and suffered from severe back problems for around 4 years. My first really bad flare up was in my wrist, I actually lost my job because of it and now have permanent damage to the bones in my wrist. My second flare up was 2 years ago and was in my knee, I was off of work for a few months and now have permanent damage to my knee. Although I've been working on and off since in various different jobs, I suffer all the time working, I was advised not to do any strenuous work (Heavy lifting etc) but I still suffer with back pains and joint pain. After a days work I sit at home in agony at night and have trouble sleeping because of it, which obviously effects my work.
I've not been working since July and about 2/3 months ago I noticed the familiar start up signs of another flare up in my knee again. I actually sprained my ankle really badly on my other leg about a month ago because my knee gave way. But sure enough I'm currently in agony with a very swollen knee and having trouble walking and have been using crutches.
I live in a rented house and get housing benefits but I don't get any other help. I'm unable to work so I'm guessing I can't claim job seekers?
This is obviously a big part of my life now, it effects me working and all this time off of work when I have been working looks bad on me trying to find work. There must be some kind of help I can get?
I've put up with being in pain just because I had to but I'm fed up of being in pain now, being in debt and unable to live properly.

Any advice would be much appreciated, I'm going to make some phone calls in the morning but its tricky knowing the right department to contact and how to go about it all. I'm not sure how common reactive arthritis is or even what category it falls under, which could be a problem?
Thanks
Thom
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Date: 07.11.2014
From: bsk

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Thom, you can apply for ESA and PIP (personal independence payment. They are two separate payments and you can get the second one even if you are in work and it is not means tested.

https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance/overview
https://www.gov.uk/pip/overview

Here is the link on the quickest way to apply.
https://www.gov.uk/pip/overview

I just googled all that for you but , as far as I know, this is the way to go. Best of luck.
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Date: 23.01.2015
From: Nicola Haines

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

i have had a sore back for the last few years. went to the doc who said my spine was slightly misaligned and there was wear and tear, and this is putting my posture off so gave me patches that made me sick and said my weight diesnt help. looking at me you wouldnt think i was active but i am i walk everywhere if i can. last year i started getting pain in my hip. was referred to physio then orthopeadic consultant. i had an xray and when i went to the consultant he touched my back in the lumbar area and i practically jumped off the bed in pain. he said its my back thats the issue and my hip is compensating so sent me for an injection to rule the hip out.i went for this in septmeber and all it did was made the pain in my back more prominent. the pain in my back gets so bad that when i walk for 2 mins im practically crawling on the ground as my legs go like jelly.i went back to the doctor and was crying in the room. she prescribed me naproxen.cocodomol,gabapentin and tramadol and signed me off work.due to go back to work next week. got taken off the tramadol as it was making me hallucinate and got put on 4 amitriptalin a night and take 9 gabapentin a day.

none of this is working. i went back for the 2nd appointment with consultant and he did another xray and it shows bad wear and tear in my backso sent me for an mri to see if there was anything causing the damage as its a lot for a 30 year old.mri came back saying nothing there that needs operated on its just bad degeneration in the spine(doctor confirmed its called spondylosis or spinal arthritis)had bee nto physio twice by this time who didnt want to do anything til i had been to chronic pain clinic as this is the next move my doctor has done. pysio spoke to my gp to see what kind of chronic pain clinic she has referred me too as there is a physio one and a consultant one(i agreed to her to find out as i didnt know what one it was by this point).pysio has just called and confimred what one it was but since i had seen my gp again by then i knew and she said my gp was keen for me to start pysio again.this isnt my problem. my problem is she has toldme to wean myself off my crutches which i am using as additional support in order for me to even walk and get back to work. her response when i told her the results of the mri were so its nothing then,and i basically get the impression she thinks im at it,as she said when she gets the muscles working as they should i should be pain free as the muscles are the main source of pain i am feeling. i have applied for pip as my mum said i should get it,she filled my form out as knows about all this stuff due to my step dad being terminally ill. and i feel like physio is making me doubt the pain im in as i know if i had to try and get around without the crutches at the moment i would struggle, i do swimming 4 days a week and feel like not going to the pysio at the moment but dont know if this would affect the pip.

am i imagining it i dont know anymore to be honest.i know the pain i have is more than strained muscles as i am in agony all night too and toss and turn and the anti inflammitiries should help with the muscles.sorry about hte long post
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Date: 23.01.2015
From: Charlene

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi please can you tell me how i get the forms and where I go to claim. I have been putting it off for too long. I'm 33 and took arthritis 8 years ago. I've worked since I left school and didn't want this disease to beat me. But I know I'm struggling to work. Please can you help. Many thanks x
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Date: 23.01.2015
From: Lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Charlene you would be better off starting a new topic go to the top of the page and click on new topic and retype your question. Old topics seem to get missed as people don't or won't read all the topic to see what is all about.
I personally don't know much about DLA so please try a new thread and I am sure some one out there will help you.
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Date: 17.04.2015
From: Sandra

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hello
I'm new here I have suffered with severe hip and back pain for over 4 years my Gp just informed me that's it arthritis I can barley. Walk most days I'm taking tramadol for the pain but doesn't help much can anyone tell me if I may be entitled to pip/dla I'm 49 years old
Thank you
Sandra
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Date: 21.04.2015
From: Barry

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi yah, I've been on incapacity benefit for 8years, first for 6 months, then a year, then 5 years I've been booked off for by ATOS, last January they called me in again, arthritis etc.. certainly hasn't got better, but in 45 mins they assessed me and 2 weeks later my money was stopped, told to go back to work, it's a proper scam but this penny pinching government, taking them to a tribunal, there was an initial appeal, that's a total joke, don't let these 'people' rip you off, treated me like a scrounger. I'll take them to the House of Lords if necessary, they just think we're easy targets, our 'wonderful prime minister' preaches how our government will be there for us in our time of need, load of shallow lies just to win votes. Soon they'll stop everything I get , again, job centre plus won't entertain me, too ill, won't even pay my stamp, worked for 40 years, this is how I get treated, and you too, if you let them, barry
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Date: 21.04.2015
From: Barry

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Charlene, try citizens advice bureaux, they'll point you in right directions, your doctor should initially book you off then after a protracted period you get transferred from your present employer if you have one, to the dept of pensions, barry
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Date: 22.04.2015
From: Anna goodwin

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi here I have o/a in my lower back and hips more severe in left doctor said I still work cleaning but can hardly walk after 3hour shift doctor said not the job to be doing ,what do I do then? Have to drive on top of steering wheel to make pain a little easier ,then are all bent up with pain when get out of car also have to slid in with left leg stiff and straight .Could I claim DLA? Annie
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Date: 27.07.2015
From: julia

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Iv been off work now 3months and have arthritis in my right patella .
I had arthroscopy 6 weeks ago .2nd in.18mnths.
I have not responded well and in constant pain having to take constant painkillers .
I work full time but i cant see me returning full time. Can i claim anythings i dont think i will ever be fully mobile again.
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Date: 28.07.2015
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Ladies, don't know much about DLA. It is called PIP now. I would just get the forms and fill them out. You could get help with the forms from Citizens advice bureau or something similar. My motto if you don't ask you wont get. If they turn you down you can appeal.
Good luck with it all.
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Date: 21.08.2015
From: Hannaj

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

My mum has astreo arthritis she don't get any money can some one send me the form please
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Date: 16.09.2015
From: Tina Carr

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi there, I've been told I've got oesoarthritis in my neck. It's causing pressure on a nerve and I'm suffering with weakness in my left arm and pins and needles in my hand and foot.
I've been recently suffering with a burning pain in my right knee with I've been told my leg doesn't run straight and know the doctor thinks it might be to do with my hip. He's told me several times to give up my job ( I'm a cashier ) but I'm scared that I wouldn't be able to claim anything. I need help deciding what to do?! Any help would be appreciated
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Date: 22.11.2015
From: Elizabeth Dryburgh

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi, my surgeon has told me I have cervical spondylosis I also have mislailined discs at the bottom of my spine this disease has given me times when I cannot turn my head at all and my back stops me from walking properly.
I also have damaged my ligaments in my left thumb and forefinger and attending physiotherapist for 6weeks and I feel as though nothing can help this condition. I also have rheumatoid arthritis in my neck and shoulder hands and wrists and feet are starting to go too. My daughter has given me a beautiful baby granddaughter and I had to have steroid injections in my my fingers to help halt the pain I could not hold her until she was 3 weeks old. I'm taking 40 mls of tramadol sulfasalazine, hydroxycloraquine, and methotrexate I also take 200mls of amytriptiline for depression. I have to take solpadine painkillers when it gets too sore to carry out any household duties. There's probably loads of normal things which are a bit difficult for me most of the time but I won't bore you with details I'm just wondering if you could help me with claiming Disability living allowance or pips as they call it?
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Date: 22.11.2015
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

PIP is hard to get thanks to Mr Cameron. If I was you I would just go for it. Try to get some help from Citizens Advice Bureau or something similar to fill out your forms.

Take care
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Date: 30.12.2015
From: Neil

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I was wondering if anyone can help please , I have had gout in my ankle for the last 10 weeks, been on meds but no help e.g naproxen, steroids and colchicine, I haven't been able to walk or drive , been back to the doctors today and he has said I need to have more blood test to see if the uric acid has come down taken me off the steroids, would anyone know if I can make a claim as the next step is physo and he's may refer me to hospital , thanks
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Date: 02.03.2016
From: liz graham

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Av just been diagnosed with atheritis I also work but find it very pain full at times I didn't think u could claim any benift while working
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Date: 02.03.2016
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Neil, there are benefits you can claim working or not. Being disabled does not mean you are incapable of work.
I am unsure what benefit any one would be entitled to the best advice is to go and have a chat with your local Citizens Advice Bureau or have a look at the Gov.Uk sites and see if you are in the bracket that entitles you to make a claim.

Sorry I can't help more than that as I am not really clued up on the benefit system. I do know that PIP is very difficult to obtain now.

I hope this may be of some use to you. Take care.
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Date: 18.03.2016
From: Alisha Smith

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

How do I apply
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Date: 19.03.2016
From: jay

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I have arthritis in the knee and am in pain all the time and i cant get from a to b by foot no more i have to get the bus or a cab can i get disabilty living allowance
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Date: 19.03.2016
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Jay , the rules have changed & you would have to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) ,

http://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/personal-independence-payment-pip/pip-points-system this should help you understand the PIP assessment criteria
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Date: 07.04.2016
From: Paula hubbard

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I didn't know about any benefits I worked full time and really struggled so dropped to part time days I could cry taking kids to school as I'm in agony are we also entitled to a blue badge
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Date: 07.04.2016
From: sleek fox

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

see above. You can apply for a blue badge but if you may have to be assessed.
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Date: 13.04.2016
From: Lisa Mcdevitt

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I've had back pain for over 3 years which as got alit more painfull and its took me all this time to get MRI scan to say I havefacect jjoin arthritis in my spine I've also got high clestrol high blood pressure and low calcium which doctor as now put me on medication a ten minutes journey to the shop now takes nearly a hour with 6 stops to get to my destination he's recommended me to pysico can I claim pip thank you for reading
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Date: 22.05.2016
From: Michelle Smith

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi,I have been on middle rate care and low rate mobility for about 7yr. I now have to go for an assessment with atos. My points were only on my mental health previously. I suffer with chronic asthma,fibromyalgia,frozen shoulder, vertigo, severe arthritis in left hip, back,pelvis and have constant sciatica for over 10 yr. Had 2 ops on back. I have had loads of blockers and steroid injections in my back. I can't believe I have to go through this.
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Date: 23.05.2016
From: Colin W

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

hi Michelle , is this for PIP ? ,

get someone to help you fill in the forms , have you got a carers support as they will know what to do or try CAB , on the assessment get someone to go with you & have it recorded , ie on a phone so you got evidence , if you are having problems get them to do a assessment at home , just dont trust their doctors , get consultant letters to back up your claim from your GP & anything else to support your claim

look through the way points are awarded for mobility & mental health & hope the claim goes well for you
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Date: 12.06.2016
From: Beverley Freemantle

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

My husband has type 2 diabetes and asthma and arthritis on his hips, knees and fingers he works but finds it difficult as he's picking and packing and works in the cold. His breathing has also been playing him up and he wakes up during the night white often and has to use his inhalers. His hips hurt if he lies on them. I have to put his socks on for him as he can't bend to do it. I've told him to stop working and claim disability. Can you advise me please.
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Date: 14.06.2016
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Beverley it is difficult to say if your husband would get PIP the new disability allowance. It is worked out on a point system. I would get the forms filled out and see what happens. You can always appeal if it is refused. Good luck.
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Date: 14.07.2016
From: Nikkie

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi,
Just need a little advice.
I've only just been diagnosed with RA, it's in my fingers and wrists, very painfully I can't even open a packet of crisps for my son! Makes me feel so useless! Nor can I open a can many other thing as well.
My sleep is all disturbed. Can't sleep with the pain.
I've now got hip and ankle pain which is all part and parcel so I've been told.
As I have just only been diagnosed can I apply for dla or pip? Can anyone help?
Thanks x
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Date: 31.12.2016
From: John Ambler

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hello everyone ive been troubled with this for 3 years and tried for diabilty they truned me down so I went to the CAB they were great well ive now been given it along with back payments don't give up!
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Date: 15.01.2017
From: helen

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

where do you begin?? I've never claimed for anything and always worked but finding RA now affecting my life with terrible fatigue at the beginning of the week which is the methotrexate period and permanently sore/aching hands - still working full-time would I qualify???
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Date: 19.01.2017
From: Lynne

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi hope u can help. I have suffered with bursitis in both hips for over a year..steroid injections not worked and i also have arthritis in left hip and hands.I am a cleaner and finding it really hard to do my job..as in cant bend..cant walk for too long and when i get home im in constant pain. Can i claim anything if i leave my job? My boss is being horrible picking on my work which i have done perfect for 4 years but since she started i have become worse and obviously she doesnt understand and i cant keep having time off as cant afford it! Any help please..fed up of all this pain and walking like a 100 year old!
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Date: 19.01.2017
From: Lynne

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Ps i m 53 and live in a terraced house where ive hadto have 2 banisyers to help pull myself upstairs but it hasn stopped me falling down them which hasn helped the pain!!
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Date: 19.01.2017
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi Lyne, noo ne knows these days who will get disability it is more luck it seems. I know people in awful conditions getting no help.
If I was you I would get the forms and try to get The Citizens Advice Bureau to help fill them out. If you could get a letter of support from your GP and Consultant and a list of your medication to put with the form I am sure it would help.

May I just say there are laws for employers and they should be helping you not making you feel bad.

Good luck with it all.
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Date: 26.01.2017
From: jill

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi I have has spinal fusion 6 weeks ago I applied before surgery for this pip it was turned down I have to go back to work for financial reasons how long do I wait to apply again can't sit for log can't stand for long and can't walk for long. Any advice would help I'm 56 and never claimed any thing in my life.
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Date: 01.02.2017
From: Sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi all. Can I still get my DLA if my husband goes back to work ?
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Date: 01.02.2017
From: lois

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

HI sue, the answer is yes of course you can. The allowance is for you personally and it does not affect anything else and is not taken into account by the tax man - rent rebates - poll tax rebates.
I only know a bit about it maybe others might reply to your posts.
Hope this helps.
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Date: 03.02.2017
From: sue

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Thank you Lois for you help.
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Date: 14.03.2017
From: lisa

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

Hi everyone my husband suffers from ankylosing spondylitis.. He also has acute gout flare ups in his feet ..he has pain all over his joints ..Ankles are degenerating too ..he is on Beneparli self injected once a week many painkillers the highest being oral Morphine and tramadol... struggling every day is an understament ..he is about to put in a claim for PIP ..good luck every one..will keep you updated
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Date: 29.03.2017
From: ged

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

I have curviture of the spine spondiolitis arthritis and 4 damaged discs in my spine the pain is constant and every 2-3 months my back completely goes where i am bedbound and cannot even get to the loo. my shoulder arm and neck have limited use I have lived with this for over 20 years and take no painkillers whatsoever...sometimes you just have to deal with life and all the ailments its brings
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Date: 11.05.2017
From: Richard donovan

Subject: Re: Disability living allowance

bad ankle I need help
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Date: 28.10.2017
From: Ryan

Subject: Total wrist fusion

Good morning all,

Needing some advise/support really.

In over a weeks time I am due to have a total wrist fusion.

I googled some information on it but they're different procedures.

Can any who has had it done give me some tips what to expect.

Advise on how to manage life after the Op?

Are we classed as disabled etc?

Any help or advise will ease my worrying.

Kind regards
Ryan
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