Dad's scan delay agony (From Barry And District News)

Dad's scan delay agony

A FATHER-OF-TWO who has been unable to go to work or play with his children because of severe back pain has to wait a year for a scan - even though his referral is termed "urgent".

The 34-year-old has been off work since October last year, and finds everyday tasks a struggle.

Simon Williams, of Llanmead Gardens in Rhoose, said: "I was told that as my case was urgent it would take a year to get an MRI scan to diagnose the problem. I was told it would be two years if it was not so serious. I am in such pain that it is a real struggle to have a shave. Even the simplest tasks are very difficult.

"Before, I was an active person and played badminton. I can't even play with my children now. It is so frustrating because I want to work. I want to pay my way. Even at home I cannot help much because of the pain I experience.

"Pushing the vacuum cleaner around is too difficult.

"And I haven't been able to pick up my daughter, which has been terrible."

Simon is a coach driver by trade but cannot do his job because of the injury.

He said: "I am not sure what happened to my back because I went to bed one evening and the next morning I was in terrible pain."