By Kate Stanforth in WheelAir.

Kate Stanforth shares her story, from being an active young girl, to developing a chronic illness and navigating ESA, DWP and public opinion.

I’m going to open this by saying that this is the most honest blog I have ever written. It’s on a subject that I know lots of people will resonate with, and I’m ready to talk about just how difficult this journey has been. I hope this helps someone. And I hope you know that if you’ve had a similar experience, you are not alone.

12 years ago, I suddenly became unwell. I went from an active young girl who was training to be a dancer to being spoon-fed in bed. I spent the first years of my chronic illness incredibly unwell, and at one point, my organs were shutting down. It was a dark time.

We decided that we needed some help, so we applied for DLA (old-style PIP). I was denied it, and I lost my appeal (despite being mainly housebound and only able to walk a few steps). We had to attend a tribunal to get my benefits (which I eventually won), but the damage had already been done. Nearly 2 years without support had an impact on friendships, family life, and my care.

To read the rest of this story, click on the link below:

Link to DWP story