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Can't work

Mon, November 10, 2008 1:00 AM

My Crohn's has gotten so out of control I am in constant pain, including terrible back pain and I am not even able to get out of bed some days. I have been a career woman my whole life and was used to working 70 hours a week. I have no energy and we are going bankrupt fast because I have no sick time. Has anyone ever tried to get disability? I have never even considered it, but I don't know what else to do until things start getting better or under control. Did anyone here do it, have any luck and did it take forever and is it worth the trouble? I am so tired. I would appreciate any advice.

kelleycatwoman
Joined Nov 12, 2008

Sat, November 15, 2008 11:15 PM

Reply posted for kelleycatwoman.

Hi,

I have had Crohn's for 20 years and about 8 years ago started having lots of problems and complications. I have lost or been released from every job since then because of time missed from work. In 2006 I spent nearly a year in the hospital for surgery and complications. I've tried to return to work twice since, just to end up sick again and not able to work.

You can and should apply for SSD if you believe you will be unable to work for at least 12 months. And if your work provides long term disability, you should be able to apply for that as well. Work disability benefits will be much easier to get approved for than SSD....just a warning.

I feel that my case is pretty obvious, especially since I was hospitalized for 9 months and recovering for more than 6 months from the surgeries, plus my past history and hospitalizations as recent as Sept 08, yet I was denied by SSD. My work disability company provided a SSD Attorney to assist me and my first appeal was also denied. We are now waiting for a date for a hearing before an administrative judge (the 3rd step). My original application was filed Aug 07.

Just be aware that it is a long process, but be diligent and don't give up. It is a struggle financially if you cannot work and don't have disability income (as I luckily do), but hopefully you will be successful.

Also, the more known Crohn's and Colitis becomes in the US, and the true extent of the disease is realized, the easier this will be in the future.

Good luck to you,

Keri

kerikaz
Joined Mar 25, 2008

Fri, November 14, 2008 12:22 AM

Reply posted for Bklyn04.

Sure, you can get disability. Most people are turned down the first time. And even a second time. Keep pushing. Use a lawyer that specializes in this. This is advise from a lawyer friend.

God Bless

Keep on keeping on

a2lawnmaster
Joined Nov 13, 2008

Wed, November 12, 2008 10:21 PM

Reply posted for kelleycatwoman.

I would suggest to document everything, everytime you take off, every medical appt, every prescription, anything whatso ever related to the condition, now if I only could follow my own advice LOL but we have to start somewhere and ask our doctor because when it comes down to it the Doctor's notes will make the differance. I don't want to do this but there are days you have no choice.

bklyn04
Joined Apr 8, 2008

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