[tsquaw]

Hi everyone. I have bilateral tos.I had my surgery almost two years ago on the left side. it helped tremendously with the pain but I'm struggling with the recurring symptoms. I changed positions at work but I'm still having to do a lot of lifting and the hour drive to work is killing me. Anyway my vascular surgeon says I need to file for disability. I'm scared to death about losing my job but I can't take it anymore. Surgery is in my near future again. Has anyone else filed for disability? Is TOS even recognized enough to qualify?

[Sea Pines 50]

There are state and federal laws against terminating someone for filing for disability. I would suggest that you research your state's laws in this regard; there is a forum on NT for issues concerning SSDI which you may find helpful. Since your doc is recommending that you file for disability (in CA you can get state [short term] disability for 12 months, after which SSDI kicks in at the federal level; don't know about your state), is there someone you can work with in his or her office to facilitate the process for you?

I've been on SSDI since March of 2005 just based on severe chronic pain - wasn't even dx'd with TOS until Sept. of that year. If I recall correctly, there is paperwork for your doc to fill out, specifying disabling sx like pain, insomnia, restrictions and so forth caused by your underlying condition/s.

Know that the Feds typically will automatically deny your first application for SSDI. There is an appeal process to make you jump through their hoops, and you may ultimately end up with an adjudication in court. Many find it helpful to engage an attorney to help them fight after the first couple of denials, and you won't be charged unless/until your claim is approved and then their fee is deducted from your first SSDI check. The whole (federal) process may take a couple of years but the $ awarded will be retroactive to the date of your first application.

If your state has short-term disability (some do not), then it should not take long for there to be a determination and award. Again, your doc's office manager (or whoever handles disability issues in their office) should be able to help a great deal in getting the ball rolling for you.

Wish you the best of luck with this! Be patient, as you will be dealing with the ever-lovin' government and a certain amount of red tape is always involved when bureaucrats are in the picture…

Alison

[astern]

I filed for disability and won. I am re-evaluated every 3 years because I am under 60, but since my dx keeps getting worse with age, I wonder why SS even bothers.

If your Vascular surgeon says you should stop work, DO IT!! And, ask him to put that in writing. It will make your case so much easier going thru the system.

Good luck!
Anne

Originally Posted by tsquaw

Hi everyone. I have bilateral tos.I had my surgery almost two years ago on the left side. it helped tremendously with the pain but I'm struggling with the recurring symptoms. I changed positions at work but I'm still having to do a lot of lifting and the hour drive to work is killing me. Anyway my vascular surgeon says I need to file for disability. I'm scared to death about losing my job but I can't take it anymore. Surgery is in my near future again. Has anyone else filed for disability? Is TOS even recognized enough to qualify?

[tsquaw]

Thank you for the responses. I'm really nervous about the whole disability thing. I used to go to the gym five days a wk, I played racquetball on the weekends, rode my motorcycle....... I've given up all that the last three years. My job is all I have left but it's really taking its toll on me and my husband.He has to do the majority of the house work because my arms and hands are useless most of the time.

[aTOSer]

One doctor told me it is "average" for disability applicants to be DENIED THREE TIMES before it is finally pushed through. Hunker down for the long haul. It is exhausting applying. I have been denied once already.

[kellysf]

My application for SSDI was rejected twice. Once I made it in front of a hearing officer, he ruled in my favor from the bench. I didn't even need to wait for his decision. I was awarded back pay for the four years it took to get to the hearing.

It is very difficult to deal with the whole notion of disability. I was relieved to have a hearing officer believe me and affirm the seriousness of TOS, but it was also really disheartening to realize I am actually disabled.

Take care,
Kelly