Disability Application

[Guest guest]

Hello all,

As of 3 weeks ago, I am no longer able to work. I just finished the

Social Security Disability application process, my goodness...talk

about alot of forms. I also applied for Short Term Disability

through my former employer.

Anyway, this is a stressful process for me because of the long time

it takes before I will get a decision from the SSA. I think I did a

good job filling out the forms, I was 100% truthful and listed all of

my previous jobs and explained why I am no longer able to perform

these jobs. I listed all of my doctors and gave the requested

contact info. I looked at the description of disability requirements

on the SS website, I think they call it the " blue book. " My

disability fits their requirements which I have posted at the end of

this message.

The only medical records I had were some doctors notes stating that I

have bilateral foot deformities as a result of CMT, a prescription

for AFOs, a note stating that I cannot work more than 20 hours per

week (from April) and a letter from the MDA stating that I am a

client. They can get the remaining records from the doctors. For

disabling conditions, I listed CMT, pinched nerve in arm, sleep apnea

and depression. These are all documented in various medical files.

Since I had an EMG/NCV showing I have lost 80+% of strength and 95+%

sensitivity in my arms/hands in addition to foot/leg problems, I

think this proves my case. But I am still worried because I have

heard that education can disqualify you from receiving benefits.

Anyway, has anyone here had a similar situation when applying for SS

Disability? If so, how did it turn out?

Info from the SS Blue Book stating what is considered to be disabling

as it relates to my CMT (and many other people's CMT):

" Significant and persistent disorganization of motor function in two

extremities, resulting in sustained disturbance of gross and

dexterous movements, or gait and station (see 11.00C).

11.00C. Persistent disorganization of motor function in the form of

paresis or paralysis, tremor or other involuntary movements, ataxia

and sensory disturbances (any or all of which may be due to cerebral,

cerebellar, brain stem, spinal cord, or peripheral nerve dysfunction)

which occur singly or in various combinations, frequently provides

the sole or partial basis for decision in cases of neurological

impairment. The assessment of impairment depends on the degree of

interference with locomotion and/or interference with the use of

fingers, hands and arms. "

Rob

[Guest guest]

Thanks. I'm on FMLA right now. I requested work accomodations ten weeks ago and

I'm still waiting. I questioned my supervisor about the wait and he suggested I

look for another job. I have mixed feelings about disability. I feel as if I'm

giving up on myself but I can't continue with the job duties I have.