Refused disablility allowance

I was injured ( right knee damaged )at work in Nov 2006, on injury benefit since then, May 2007 (Operation on knee ) since then receiving pain killers etc for knee. August 2008 asked for and received permission to start 3rd level course at UL for 4 years, ( started sep 2008 ) Jan 09 examined by orthopeadic consultant ( on behalf of defendants ) who stated he would contact surgeon as still had major problem with my knee, so I applied for disabillity allowance, had medical Feb 09, received letter 10 days later saying they taking me off illness benefit as able to do 'other work' ( I had worked in security for 25 years , I am now 45 yrs old) not entitled to job seekers due to 3rd level course, not entitled BTEA till May 09. Appealed injury benefit decision as an appointment set up for 03.03.2009 to see surgeon who operated on me, 27.2.09 interview regards means testing for disabillity. Seen by surgeon 03.03.09 x-ray etc on this date and informed that I require an artificial knee however too young as artificial knees last approx ten years and would have to return to hospital every 6 months for injections instead, received letter today stating refused disablility on 'medical grounds' ? Of course I will appeal this but surely this is wrong ! Any one who can be of help with advice or past experience please.

They are tightening up on DA big time at the moment! Send Independant medical report along with your claim coupled with outlining your return to college to retrain to enable you to seek alternative employment and your intention to use DA as a short term support while you are in rehabilitation. If the appeal is turned down go to your local elected representative.

Greg thanks for swift reply, Im not sure about independant medical report, I can ask the consultant surgeon who assessed me at the Orthopedic hospital Croom, however I feel that with a 21day appeal deadline this may prove challenging but I will give it a shot. Completely stressed from all angles !

In the meantime send in letter stating your intention to appeal and the delay is due to waiting time for the medical report. Request extra time to furnish same