“How do you do it?” How does anyone keep going through insurmountable difficulties? We’re talking the really big stuff. The stuff that can’t be fixed with chocolate (gasp) or a pitcher of margaritas or a box of tissues and a friend’s slobbered-on shoulder. We’re talking the ‘I don’t think I could ever get through it […]
When my husband first got sick, I was honestly just so overwhelmed trying to “maintain,” that finding help for our household was put on the back burner for several weeks. When things finally calmed down, I realized that my family needed help, but I had no idea where to begin looking for it. I am […]
“Nothing personal, but the fewer times I see you, the better.” My comment elicits smiles from my medical caregivers. They know exactly what I mean. I admire the heck out of all of them. I’m extremely grateful for their dedication and commitment. Almost as far back as I can remember, I’ve been involved in the […]
Avoid Common Mistakes When Your Social Security Disability Benefits Are Denied Allsup outlines why SSDI benefits may be denied and the importance of representation Belleville, Ill. – Dec. 17, 2010 – Nearly 300,000 people applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in October, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Since approximately two-thirds will […]
58 million Americans receiving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will not be receiving a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2011 (SS). Beneficiaries did not receive this adjustment in 2010 either. It is estimated that almost 10 million people living with various disabilities and their dependents are on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) (Allsup). According […]
“They’re all alike.” It was a rude awakening listening to the receptionist at my doctor’s office. I’ve previously been stereotyped within earshot for various reasons, but not usually when I’m the paying customer. Most employees understand who ultimately pays their mortgage, and it’s not so much their employer. Another customer – aka patient – and […]
ADA revisions define service animals. ADA Revisions published in the Federal Register on September 15, 2010 clarified the definition of service animal and revised the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations. Most of us are familiar with guide dogs for the blind or visually impaired and hearing dogs for those who are deaf or hearing impaired. […]
“You’re weird.” Not the typical diagnosis one hears at the doctor’s office. Stranger still, it wasn’t me hearing it. If it had been, it wouldn’t have been ultra surprising. For several (ahem) decades, this body has routinely presented an out-of-the-ordinary case for my medical team to investigate. I figure it’s my contribution to science. Hey, […]
Six Advantages of Representation When You First Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits Social Security Office of the Inspector General’s report: Disability applicants could benefit with SSDI representation Belleville, Ill. – Sept. 23, 2010 – Individuals submitting initial applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) could benefit from the use of a third-party representative, according […]
Finding health care when a person has an existing condition and other issues can be quite a challenge. Attorney, Jennifer C. Jaff is the founder of Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness, which focuses on topics that pertain to those living with chronic conditions. Patients can get free (depending on funding) information, advice and advocacy services for such topics […]
Knowing your rights and how to fight for them is a huge endeavor when you live with chronic illness. Out of her own experiences with illness and disability, attorney Jennifer C. Jaff set out to find answers then became the Founder of Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness. Visit Jaff’s website for more valuable information, advice and advocacy services. www.advocacyforpatients.org/ Audio […]
Jacqueline L. Jones went a search for help after becoming debilitated by fatigue and pain. Eventually, she was able to regain much of her health and created a program to assist others with money and time saving tips for seeking medical help. Jacqueline is the author of Unmasking a Diagnosis: How to Find Help for a Confusing Illness Without Filing […]
Attorney Scott E. Davis focuses on clients who cannot work due to chronic conditions that cause disabling pain or fatigue. His firm has discovered that these cases are often most challenging, due to the nature of the disability and the lack of understanding by others. Davis’ website provides a wealth of information. www.ScottDavisPC.com Audio aired in 2009 for […]