"Not listened to at Stoke Mandeville"

Two years ago I saw a consultant rheumatologist at Stoke Mandeville Hospital as I was suffering with joint pain, muscle pain, severe fatigue, high temperatures, chest pain, malar rash, poor mobility and stiff hands and feet.

I was told that blood results were 'false positives' and tested for parvovirus. The results for the parvovirus came back that historically I had suffered this illness and the conclusion was made that I had post viral fatigue. I asked at the time whether I could be suffering with some kind of autoimmune problem and was fobbed off and made to feel like I was some kind of workshy malingerer.

My GP at the time was very supportive and kind and listened to my concerns and sent me for a second opinion. I have since consulted with some excellent doctors in a different area who actually listened to me, took my concerns seriously, reassured me that it wasn't all in my head, confirmed that I have an autoimmune disorder and started treatment which I will need for the rest of my life.

I am certain that had I gone along with the consultant at Stoke I would be in a wheelchair or worse.