As you may know, I was stranded in San Francisco over the weekend because of the air travel disruption. I was incredibly stressed about this, as I need to use a CPAP on long distance flights, and there were strict rules about no electrical items being allowed in the cabin.

I am MOST GRATEFUL to those of you who sent me pms of support and love. It helped greatly. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART.

Well I'm home now, with my CPAP ....................

I was fine until I got to the second security check at San Francisco, when there was a question about the battery in the CPAP (for the clock/record keeping etc) and that it might cause a spark on being powered up, thus being able to start an explosion. (All this is new to me.)

I was told that I would have to check my CPAP, and this distressed me, even though the kind BA ramp supervisor lady at SFO had already put my luggage aside (at the gate) so that I could choose which bag it was to go in. The TSA staff were amazingly kind and supportive - they could see how upset I was - and they pursuaded the BA lady to check again. She admitted that this was an odd case, and had already been in contact with supervisory staff and management since I had checked in (3 hours before).

It was finally decided that the CPAP would be given personally by the BA agent to the CSD (Cabin Services Director) on board, and he would look after it during the flight, so that it was with me but not available for use.

I was still shocked and a sweet member of the cabin crew listened to my story and went to see the CSD to see if I could eventually have my CPAP during the flight - when it was 'night time' and the lights had been dimmed. This sensible gentleman had no problem with this at all and I DID get 4 hours patchy sleep.

At Heathrow, I explained that I was in transfer, and the security staff seemed to have no qualms about letting me through. I had my CPAP with me during the short flight.

However, once arrived at my destination, my bag had not been put in the hold at London, and I have been told that it might be 5-6 days before it catches up with me. I am SO glad it wasn't in the hold.

CPAPs might be ok in the hold for direct flights, but I would avoid doing this at all costs if there is a transfer/connection .... especially at LHR as it is at the present (and some cynics might add 'at any time').

Just my factual experience, and hope it helps someone, somewhere