fibro and SS Disability

[LLWB]

Has anyone out there been thru the process of getting on disability for fibro? I recently had a neuro exam, with 16 of the 18 points flared up. Along with diabetes, degenerative osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and 2 more bulging discs( they just removed cervical disc and fused C5-C6).  I work only because I have to, I am a widow, and I am only 60, so can't quit until I can get medicare insurance. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[bluetribe]

Just to clarify you do not need to be off of work for 5 months to apply....you should apply the day after you leave your job because of medical reasons.  I  have a website that you may find helpful, http://healthy-holistic-living.com Specifically my SSDI tips page, http://healthy-holistic-living.com/social-security-disability-application.html.  I am familiar with the process because I went through it myself.  I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Nuerally Mediated Hypotension 7 years ago and had to leave my job as well so I certainly know what you are going through.
Best of Luck to You,
Michelle

[begonia1956]

Hello. I just wanted to tell you not to give up, pursue SS disability. I finally got approved after a 2 year wait. Unfortunately, my representative (Of course I had to hire someone) told me that as long as you are working, even while pursuing disability you have a slim chance of getting it.  I would recommend that you talk to your local Social Services office, they can help you with things until your disability comes through. It was hard. My sister is still waiting for hers, it has been 3 years.  We are in our 50's and I did hear those 50 and over do get approved sooner than younger people.  It is hard living on one income and then being forced to stop work and having to wait on the disability.  Your best bet would be to stop work if you can, as long as you are working they will consider you able to work. I hope this helps.

[swkwms]

I now am 48.  About 9 years ago I was told I to had fibro. I also had been pulled out of work for about a year before that.. I did get ssi/disability just on the fibro case... I live here in N.Y. If you need info on a very, very good lawyer here in NY let me know....That does deal with fibo and disability,, It's her line of work and she is very good at what she does..

[LLWB]

That you so much for the input. I just had more lab tests done today, they took 4 vials of blood! CBC, anemia, ANA HLA-B27, etc. Will see doctor on Fri for results. It is so discouraging. I try to plan something for weekend, then have no energy to do anything. I did 2 loads of laundry this weekend, and 1 load is still in dryer. LOL Legs really hurting tonight. And yes, I take anti-depressants, and just renewed perscrip for sleeping pills, because 4-5 hrs a night is not enought rest. Will check out the website, thank you so much.

[heart2heart]

You would be a shoe in for SSDI but unfortunately you are working. You have to be off work for 5 months before you apply. The fact you are working shows you are able to work (according to the SSA).   I know several people who would be able to get SSDI but have to work, they too are older, around 60 and have some nasty and serious conditions. Then there are luckier people who have a spouse they can fall back on and be supported while they wait for the slow wheels to turn at the SSA.  As far as getting disability for fibro, with all your problems, fibro would be the least of your worries. They would look at your spine problems, surgeries, diabetes.  Are you depressed and on any anti anxiety meds and antidepressents?  yes.?  Ok, good.   When you do get SSDI, you get medicare within 2 years. And yes, you do have to pay for part B medicare, part A is free.
I suggest you look into the Social Security Administration Website and look into their blue book of impairments. SSA.gov.

[snoopy123]

MY dr. doe's it he's at   Moss Rehab in philadelphia hi name is dr. Leonard Kamen  he suggested it to me for the fibro and I have much pain from it also

[LLWB]

Thanks for the reply. Mt anxiety and depression over all my health issues has me flared up bigtime. Can't afford to quit work, and have trouble working. I would love to get up one day and not be in pain, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. The best I have felt for years was when I was off the month for the cervical disc removal and fusion, because I didn't have to do anything. But I barely made it thru this week working. Have you heard anything about an IV of Lidocaine for fibro? The specialist who did my nerve conduction studies mentioned it, but I haven't been able to find out anything about it.

[PlateletGal]

I've heard where people who have fibro are having a tough time getting disability. However, with your other medical conditions... hopefully that should be enough. From what I hear, SS tends to discriminate towards younger people... since you are 60, I would say that you would have a better chance of being approved, than someone who is younger.

Remember if SS denies you or is taking too long, that you can call your Senator and/or Congressman and they may be able to help you expedite the process.

Good luck !