Originally Posted by Jimking

How many appeals have you had? Where did you hear this judge was tough? Are you contend with your lawyer? You know you can google this judge and find out his record on awards and rejection ratio.

Originally Posted by erica1000

I am here to unload a little stress. I just started my journey, but it has already been a windy road that I would rather not be traveling.

I filed for disability based on complications from MS on March 24, 2011. I did my application online and within just a few days, I received the authorization form for release of medical records. Signed and faxed that back. Then April 19, I received the Work History report to complete. Completed that but it took a few days, faxed back on April 23. So at this point I am feeling pretty good and thinking things are moving very quickly.
SSA sent me several forms that needed to be completed on May 14. There were Adult Function forms for me and my husband to complete as well as questionnaires for my doctors. Here is where the stress comes. I saw my neurologist at the MS center on May 17 to get forms completed but she could only do the fatigue/strength part. The other part related to cognitive functions she said we needed the Neuropsychologist to complete. Since I had a nueropsych exam recently he should be able to use that information to complete the questionnaire.

Well getting these forms completed should have been no issue because they are both located in same building(a major rehab center). Of course it would not be that simple. In the same building but a world apart. The MS center said they would complete my form and get it sent to SSA and send the other form to the neuropsychologist doctor for him to complete his part. My SSA rep said the forms from the doctors are the only thing she is waiting on. As of today, (June 2) SSA does not have either form and I have not been able to get a straight answer from neuropsych or the MS center. I have been emailing and calling all week but no luck.

I have wondered why for some people it can take so long to get things moving with SSA. I can see how doctors can contribute to the wait but still know that even if all things fall into place it can still be a long process. And silly of me to think that things can fall into place.

Here I am in the very beginning of my journey and I am already frustrated. I can only imagine what it will be like if this goes and goes to be years long. I am expecting the worst but hoping for the best. Thanks for letting me vent a little.

Originally Posted by thechosenone

Sorry erica1000 about your fustratiions. Waiting for an SSI decision is like watching paint dry...fustrating and nerve wrecking!

Its so many pieces to the puzzle it hard to say who and where the process is held up, but it is definitley fustrating. Hang in there as I know from first hand experience how fustrating it is. The way they start off being so prompt gives you hope, and then the waitin game begins. Its like a hurry up and wait type of thing. I have had to REALLY busy myself with other things to take my mind off of it. Hang in there!

Originally Posted by Shari_W

Sorry to hear about the problems you are having Someone should be able to tell you the status on your Disability Paperwork. I would continue calling them and insist on speaking to the Office Manager (If they are still called that), If they aren't available, have them put you through to the Office Managers voicemail so you can leave a message. I would take down every name that you speak to and call them everyday until someone can give you a direct answer telling you where your papers are and when they expect them to be completed and sent to SSA.

Oh, also have them send you a copy of the completed forms for your records. Although that may be even more difficult since they are dragging their little behinds on sending the original paperwork to SSA. I understand it can take a little time to get those forms filled out but they should at least let you know the status of your paperwork when you call them.

Hang in there I know it's frustrating but be persistent.

Shari

Originally Posted by erica1000

thechosenone
You hit the nail on the head. That is exactly how I feel "like watching paint dry". I know I won't be able to not think about it so am trying to keep busy with other stuff and hope that will keep me preoccupied such that I don't dwell on it much. Thanks for the encouragement.

Originally Posted by disab t

Couldn't stand it. Called hearing office. And told them I would not call again if she would please give me my decision. She just let me know case was closed today. Fully Favorable!!!! I'm so happy that I'm crying.