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StuckAtHome 04/27/2011

I have a disability hearing coming up on May 2nd. I've finally rounded up all of my medical records. I'm really nervous and stressed. My reports show that I have neurological damage but there hasn't been an official diagnosis yet and I'm afraid they might hold that against me. I do have another condition that may qualify me even without the physical issues but I'd like them to take both into consideration. Also, I was unable to make it to my SSI appointed doctor visit due to both my physical problems not allowing me to drive and my other condition. I don't know if that will count against me but I'm assuming they aren't going to be happy with me. I don't have a lawyer and I feel like I'm going to be denied unless I go in there and know what to say and do. Does anyone have any helpful suggestions or advice?

deleted_user 04/27/2011

Can you get a lawyer? I think there are lawyers who just do disability claims, and some work pro-bono..

But if not.. I'm not sure as I haven't been through the process. I have known people who have been on diability with no dx other than then "chronic pain" and her pain was severe enough that it prevented her from working. You have to prove that you cannot work, not that you fit into some pre-defined diagonses bucket. Think about whether or not you really could do a job - any job - and what questions they might ask to prove that you can. My understanding is that Chances are, if you can do even a menial job, then you would get denied, not based soley on dx.

Best of luck to you.

lchoppel 04/27/2011

It's really really late to be looking for a lawyer, but you should have a lawyer with you. It won't cost you anything upfront. Try checking around first thing tomorrow morning and see if anyone will be able to take your case (May 2 is just next week!) If not, all you can do is hope and pray for the best. I'm sorry you didn't ask this question last month for the advice of getting a lawyer. Also, the courts will consider both your conditions in their decision, all medical evidence is considered. Don't tell the courts you don't drive and that is the reason you missed your appointment. Not driving is not a reason not to work. Let them know your physical condition interfered with your ability to get to the set appointment. The courts might give you an extension to get in to see their doctors and then you would have enough time to find a lawyer. Stranger things have happened.

I wish you all the best luck come May 2. Keep us informed of what happened in court. I'll be thinking of you! Many hugs.

deleted_user 04/28/2011

I think you should call the court and ask for an extension. Explain you were not able to keep the appointment with their doctor due to medical issues. I hope you called in advance and let them know why you were canceling. Why wasn't another appointment made? Those are the questions a judge will be asking you. At this time you would be wasting both your own time and the time of the judge. I doubt he will be happy. Best to try getting an extension.

deleted_user 04/28/2011

I agree with Sumanadevil, a lawyer won't do anything but cost you money and tell u want u know, which is make a dr. appt u actually can get to and when u c the crt appointed dr continue from there.

cuz u r rt, in all likelihood w/o it u will get denied, sorry but you r right. U already have an uphill battle with no diagnosis, have everything else all taken care of.

A lawyer isn't a magic bullet to get approved, u can do it alone, I would also get a signed notarized statement from ur doc if he can't come to the hearing.

Best bet have more paper work than you need, so when they ask to see sumthing u can go " sure, here ya go" they are looking to trip u up or deny u, not help no matter how nice & careing they seem. And my husband always tells me do more listening than talking.

Plz keep us posted.

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