"Help I received"

I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia a year ago. This has really changed my life. I have recently retired. I have never been involved with any Social Services before and did not have any idea about getting help.

The nurse at my GPs referred me to Primary Care Occupational. On my first appointment I met Orla. We discussed a lot about my problems. Not only my health but about my situation and issues I had with mobility and hygiene. I filled out a little assessment about how I felt at the time.

Orla gave me advice and came to my home and showed me ways of getting in to the shower and aids to help me. A grab bar was arranged to be fitted by the council and a link was sent for a website called Flipping Fibromyalgia. I gained a lot of useful information about this illness. I am now applying for a Blue Badge and still dealing with my illness.

I was also referred to Hairmyres Hospital for a walking stick that now gives me a lot more confidence when I am out. I will be attending a weekly class to aid my balance and build up my strength.

Orla done a lot of great things to assist me. I think the most important thing was listening to me, not judging me, having empathy about my situation and making me feel that she really cared about helping me. When I was speaking to my GP about my illness their response was yes it's very difficult to diagnose and they done nothing. I was totally deflated. when I met Orla and she changed all of that.

I can't thank this service and Orla enough for the assistance I received. I completed another assement at my last appointment and the difference was incredible. Although I have called it my last appointment it was made clear to me the service was available to me if I needed it again. Thank you for all your help.