Insights, Blogs & News
No COLA for People on Social Security in 2011
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 to Allsup, a company that provides disability benefits representation, “The Social Security Administration’s announcement of no COLA is distressing news for people with disabilities and their families” (Allsup). Why will there not be a COLA for 2011? “As determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there […]
They’re All Alike
“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 I were sitting in the waiting room this week. The other customer sat down moments before, following the check-in process, during which she was laughing and chatting with the same receptionist in question. This apparently newish receptionist then answered the phone. She hung up and […]
Loma Linda University Conducting Parent/Child Study
Loma Linda University’s Department of Psychology (LLU) is conducting a study regarding a parent’s pain and the effects on the oldest child. Chronic illness and pain can not only affect the life of the person living with it, but also those around them. Throughout the years, many parents have expressed concerns in our support groups about their limitations being a burden on their loved ones – especially their children. Why are they doing this study? LLU says: Research on chronic pain patients is needed to help improve the care available to them and their families. This study is being conducted as part of […]
Woman with Cryoglobulinemia and Her Service Dog Bring Hope to Others
A Thanksgiving Story. Dr. Diane Dike lives with Cryoglobulinemia, a rare blood disorder that can be very painful, debilitating and life threatening. Seven years ago, when Diane’s condition was greatly worsening, she was told about a doggie that had been in an accident and needed a new home. Diane and her husband, Paul, went to see this pup with two broken legs and a ripped off tail – it was love at first sight! At the time, they had no idea that this little creature they named Gracie would not only fill their lives with joy, but would also give back in bigger ways […]
The Brain Blog: Three Pounds of Mostly Fat
Actress Candice Accola Gives Voice to Lyme Disease
Actress, Candice Accola is giving a voice to Lyme Disease. Accola stars as Caroline Forbes on The CW’s hit television show, “The Vampire Diaries.” After high school, Accola’s childhood friend Teri suddenly became very ill after contracting Lyme Disease. When Accola learned of this, she did not know much about Lyme. Accola said she thought, “Oh, well, I know you get if from a tick so … she’ll be fine. They’ll give her antibiotics … piece of cake.” Liol Magazine Once Accola learned of the seriousness and complexities of her friend’s illness, she decided to bring awareness to the disease. She said, “I wanted […]