had disability tirbunal, no answer yet

[wishforchange]

Had my disability tribunal today.  Three men questioning me for nearly 90 minutes about my intimate body functions.  Not the proudest day of my life.  Doctor was the hardest one, got the impression he was looking to pick holes in my story.  It was more like a police interrogation than a tribunal.  Usually they give you the answer the same day.  But I was told they needed to discuss it and would post me their decision.  There was no physical examination, just endless questions about my toilet habits and my trips to the supermarket.  I was asked at one point why I didn't have a  walking stick.  Actually spent most of yesterday looking for a folding one.  Couldn't believe what I found.  All of them are designed for the taller person.  I am not tiny, about 160cm or so, but all the sticks were way too long and couldn't be shortened enough.  Even online couldn't find a smaller one.  Found a fabulous stick perfect for my needs in one shop but it was not folding, and I really don't want to be with a cane all the time right now.  That time may come, but while I can walk independently, I want to.  Anyone know of a supplier of smaller folding sticks?  Ideally I am looking for a length of 28 inches, about 71 cm.  Am surprised as assumed that sticks would be for small people more than tall ones, being that many users are elderly and smaller than younger folk.  Am tempted to get the stick I liked so much, it had a spring in it which was great for balance issues, but what will I do with it?  Any other little people out there who use folding sticks?  
Anyway, tribunal over, can do no more.  Doctor asked me if I took all my pain meds for psychological reasons.  So you can tell where he's coming from.  Had plenty of medical evidence to show them, if they say no there is nothing more I can do - well apparently I can argue on a point of law or something.  Worrying thing is the doctor on their forms who is written as my regular one is this one who started the drug charge and  who I subsequently reported.  I had previously declined my consent for the social security office to contact them but they went ahead anyway without my consent.  Seems they just ask for your consent as a formality and then do as they please.  
Enough negative thinking.  Deed is done.  If they say no so be it, if they contact my new doctor and tell him to stop my meds (I am so paranoid)...what am I on about they can't do that, I hope?  Need to restart taking my medications, was too depressed to take them, eg iron, and get out of this slump.  Am anaemic, am low on vitamin d, can't move without glucosamine.  Getting down and stopping them all is not achieving anything.  Will take tablets now.  Thanks for anyone who's read this for sticking to the end of this rambling nonsense.

[Oldroser]

This is one of the sites I found helpful in preparing for my Social Security disability, perhaps you will find it helpful also. There are others listed along with fibromyalgia because it is so hard to get approved with fibro.

http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/

[Pinto440]

Keep me posted.  I don't know what this "tribunal" things means, but I assume you had your appointment with the state doctor.  When I saw the state doctor they ignored my physical health reports and asked me if I was suicidal.  I said no.  Then they denied me.  I went home and wanted to shoot myself. I thought my medical records would speak for me.  They don't. When I get another chance, I'm putting my two cents in and then some about how difficult simple things have become.  It will be my last chance and I intend to speak out at this one.  Good luck to you. Please let me and the forum know how this pans out.

[AMO]

hi wish,

you have done what was askked, that is all you can ask of yourself. Always waiting is diffucult.
I am confused, can I  ask if you are un the u.s.?
Many years ago ii got my folding cane, i especially liked it for travvel.
IT is not so short, but the rubber bottom can come off and a few inched could be cut. Then ittt would not interfer with folding, just uneven lenghts.

Than said, i am sorry they had interigated you so. In a strange way  you have learned from this experience, and you know you have more in you possibly than you thought.
hang tough while waiting.

oh yes, and if you are in u.s. IF you are denied, your congressman office should be of help for appeal.
keeep us posted, amo

[Fluffysmom]

Well, I'm glad it's over for now.  I'm sorry it was such a trial.  I hope they get back to you quickly so you aren't left wondering.  If they deny you, maybe you can find an attorney to help.

Please try and let go of the worries and have a be-kind-to-you day.  Remember good things in your life, search for the perfect walking stick, take it easy and try to relax.  Oh, and take your vitamins (said in mom voice).  :o)

They won't withhold your pain meds unless you show signs of drug-seeking behavior, like trying to get rxs from several doctors, "losing" meds, etc.  They are supposed to be more compassionate about chronic pain than they were in the past.  Most doctors know the difference now between addiction and reliance on pain meds to improve your quality of life.

wishing you the best,

Kathy

[Wobbly]

my goodness, it sounds like they really did a number on you...
you take care of yourself and try not to worry.

I can't stand the way people are treated...it's just not fair....but who ever said life is fair..

take it easy
andie

[LLWB]

Glad to hear it's over. So disappointing no answer right away, but maybe that's a good thing. Maybe the dr can't get the other two to agree with him it's psychological. Hopefully they will stand up for you. Now take a deep breath, relax, knowing you did the best you can do. Google folding canes, there are humdreds of companies, you are sure to find the right one for you.  Take it easy and rest.  Prayers

Maggie