Could the tribunal be guilty of discrimination by association?

[Callista]

So, this is a tricky situation that I find myself in. I am a former colleague of a person who is taking our former employer to an employment tribunal. I was his rep throughout the disciplinary procedures and he has elected for me to represent him at the tribunal. However, my neighbour is now at the end of life and is not expected to survive beyond the date of the preliminary hearing (14th of this month). I am acting as carer for my neighbour and I am on call 24hrs 7 days a week. I am also the executor of his will, so I will have a funeral to organise and sought out distribution of my neighbours property. I have therefore asked urgently for a stay as I simply cannot represent my former colleague competently at the moment. The respondents have requested the judge not to give a stay, stating my colleague could either self represent, or seek other representation (he is unlikely to be able to self represent successfully and cannot afford alternative representation ) I am wondering if, to deny me a stay, would constitute discrimination by association? I welcome any feedback in response to my question. Thanks