pearl,

being newly diagnosed with a disorder that you have had for sometime is not as odd as it might sound. this is often the case with multiple sclerosis and other disorders. social security is familiar with back dating disability. they may date your disability at the date you last worked. your disability date may be 5 years ago when you left the work force.

i wish you luck. take your time and fill out all forms when you are as relaxed as possible. the process is grueling: find a friend who can support you thru it. and i would think about a lawyer but don't fret over the fact that your disorder was years in the making - your disability began before you knew it. this happens.

take care, june