"I cannot thank her enough, although she says she was just doing her job."

I was diagnosed by GP after various test in May 2023 with ME. No idea what this was or what was happening to me. It affected not only my physical health but also my mental health. I  suffered greatly. I suffered fatigue, palpitations, loss of confidence, memory loss, confusion, brain fog, headaches and loss of words when talking. I can no longer take a long walk or drive far as my concentration doesn't last long.

Felt as if everything was I can't do that anymore. It was life changing and I didn't know how to deal with this. I work full time and care for grandkids out-with school hours so I had a lot going on and couldn't believe the fatigue ME caused. I was so upset I wouldn't be able to play with them any more - they're only 4 years old. I thought I would have to give up my job after 24 yrs in the same job, which I love.

My GP had OT Siobhan to contact me to discuss the symptoms and give guidance. Siobhan did home and surgery visits with me. She was always in touch even by telephone. She was very empathetic and understanding. She guided me how to deal and adjust to this new condition by planning and pacing myself. She provided me with NHS written guidance on ME, but more importantly she discussed everything weekly with me, set goals for me and followed up on these. She alleviated a lot of pressure by helping with my workplace, having them understand the complexities of ME and encouraged them to make reasonable adjustments, which they now have. I cannot thank her enough.

I deal with this every day, and every day is different but she showed me how I can do this - no more do I say I can't, I now say I can manage this, and its not a fail if I can't. She was my professional confidante and utter brick. The professional healthcare professional service provided was the best, although I have nothing to compare it to. But at no time did I feel alone. Siobhan has empowered me to deal with this head on and rest when I have to, making me the priority. I can keep working full time and still watch my grandkids.  I cannot thank her enough, although she says she was just doing her job - she was above and beyond and is a natural empath.