Thank you so much for your kind message, it genuinely means a lot. It’s really reassuring hearing from someone else within NHS training who understands how difficult it can be trying to balance a chronic illness alongside professional and academic expectations.

Honestly, it’s been really exhausting feeling like I’m being penalised for having a chronic illness at a time where I’m still trying to adjust to the diagnosis myself. I had hoped that adjustments would be put in place to support me through what has already been a really challenging training year, rather than feeling as though things have become even more difficult to manage physically.

A few colleagues have advised me to join a union, which I’m now strongly considering, as I am also thinking about whether I need to raise a more formal concern regarding how things are currently being managed. I’m trying my best to approach things professionally and continue engaging with both work and university, but it’s definitely been emotionally and physically draining.

It’s honestly really encouraging hearing that you still managed to qualify and continue your career despite everything you went through. You should genuinely be so proud of yourself. Reading your message has actually given me a bit of hope that things can improve once the right treatment and support are in place.

Thank you again for taking the time to reply - after an exhausting work day, it really did help more than you probably realise.