Help .. Where and when to start?
 

Hi
I have been out of work since the end of Nov 2015.
I've had all kinds of tests but not all of the results yet.
I am 52 / female. My current occupation is Teacher but am not certified yet. Prior I was a financial controller. I can not perform anything right now and scared to pieces. My FMLA ran out March 11th, school says if I return April 11th, I'll be ok. I cannot perform duties right now, I'll fail in epic style.

I've been diagnosed with sensory peripheral neuropathy with unknown cause as of yet. Started with migraines which I'm still being treated for. I've had alot of tests - all normal; CT scan of head, MRI's of head, lumbar and thoracic, EEG,

Waiting for results of nuero psyhc exam.

I am on Gabapentin 1200 mg day, Indocin 50 mg day and propranolol 60 mg day.

I have short term memory issues, terrible trouble focusing (brain fog?), speech issues, walking with dragging foot, driving and stress of any kind magnify symptoms - I feel like I'm going absolutely crazy

What do you when you know you can't perform your job any longer? I'm not able to "fake to you make it" anymore and it's absolutely killing me.

Would love advice on how you knew what to do and when to do it.
Thanks

I think you can start SSDI application online.
If you think you may be unable to work due to this for a year or longer , you can start application now , as it may take that long to figure out your dx/s and treatments.

Read the SSDI sticky threads for best start up/tips and info on avoiding problems /pitfalls.

Doctors keep saying 4 more weeks ..
 

Yes, it seems Doctors keep saying going 4 more weeks, 4 more weeks ..

I've been reading the recommended steps on the board. Do I ask the Dr to fill out the RFC form first? To see exactly what they think first? Who do I ask Neuro or Primary?

I don't know if I'm understanding the process properly

What Jo*mar suggested.....
"Read the SSDI sticky threads for best start up/tips and info on avoiding problems /pitfalls."

You should also visit the Social Security Disability Benefits website.


GOOD LUCK! :hug:

Do you have a disability policy through your employer? Or, do you live ina state with short term disability ins?

It will be very difficult to be approved IMO with your current medical records. I

Lit Love - Sorry I didn't see your post. I don't know what IMO stands for. I've been reading the threads here and have been documenting everything I can.

I have a long term disability insurance with my employer. It is now 6 months out of work and I made an appointment with my Neurologist and GP to support me filing the claim forms.

My profession is Accounting and most recently I was trying to become a High School Accounting Teacher but with illness couldn't complete the qualifications. I am 52 and will not be able to go back to my "professional" status. I am praying that I can put a strong case together.

I have an appointment with Social Security Office to file claim on June 18. I live in New Hampshire and the office they booked appointment is in Massachusetts.

Usually IMO= In My Opinion.....Hope that helps?

You're required to file for SSDI due to your LTD policy, correct?

It'll be difficult to be approved prior to having a diagnosis, but by the time you end up at an ALJ hearing, hopefully you'll have that diagnosis.

Most insurance companies will cover the cost of your representation. They often prefer that you use the service they choose, but if you read the fine print of your policy, you can generally hire whomever you wish. If you go with an attorney, you don't really need to sign until the ALJ stage. If you go with a non attorney rep they will often be more hands on from the start, so you could sign with them as early as you wish.

You need to be aware that the standard is if you can work at the SGA level(Significant Gainful Activity is $1130 per month in 2016) performing any job, not just your prior work. So you'll need to prove you're incapable of even unskilled, sedentary work.

I met with both doctors who are completing the LTD paperwork and are helping me complete the SDI paperwork. The diagnosis are peripheral nueropathy in both legs/feet and hands/arms (carpal tunnel?), migraines. They both agree I cannot work and unsure if/when I will be able to return. Praying that I can get through this.
Thank you for your reply

I am grateful for the threads and tips. I have been going through them and trying to prepare properly.
Thank you