"Chronic diseases"

I have multisystem sarcoidosis. This was diagnosed at CMH in 2002. I have been attending the Rhuematology out patients department approximately every 3 months since then. They are my main carers even though I attend different specialities also. The rheumatology doctors and nurses listen to me when I attend the clinic. They inform me of my recent test results and what they think the next step should be. Sometimes I disagree with what they want to do and after a detailed discussion we come to a decision that suits us both. I moved to Watford from neasden 11 years ago but still come to this hospital because of their expertise in my condition.

Sarcoidosis is a very hard disease to live with and although my Gp is very sympathetic he doesn't make any major decisions about my care so knowing I can ring the rhuematology department outside of appointment times is very reassuring.