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How can I ever support myself?

Sun, September 11, 2011 7:38 PM

I am 23 years old, and was diagnosed with severe pan-colitis in July of 2009, when I was 21. This was after being diagnosed with depression much earlier in my life. By some grace of God -- and my deep love for literature -- I was able to finish my bachelor's degree in English and graduate on time in the spring of 2010. However, things have just gotten increasingly worse since then.

I have never fully recovered, or attained legitimate remission. I was so enthusiastic about starting my career after college in the Publishing industry, but soon found out that I was never well enough to even hold on to a hostess job. Between the Remicade, pain meds, fatigue, bleeding...I want to be hopeful but I just don't know what to do. My parents still support me financially - they pay my rent and hospital bills. But I can't live my life like this forever.

They didn't prepare me in college for the cutthroat, difficult job market. But I don't think anyone could prepare me for trying to support myself while dealing with two chronic diseases.

Please help me.

Thanks,

Courtney

cpeters4773
Joined Jul 27, 2010

Wed, October 19, 2011 12:37 PM

Reply posted for cpeters4773.

I qualify for disability and have worked 10+ years full-time and paid into benefits if I need them. I am still waiting to hear back from SSD about the decision, but I think I will get approved . If you have medical documentation and can't work, you can get disability money to help you.

Here is a link for the digestive diagnosis 5.06 is IBD

http://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/5.00-Digestive-Adult.htm#5_02

alivein315
Joined May 30, 2009

Fri, September 16, 2011 10:55 AM

Reply posted for cpeters4773.

Well, you're certainly in a difficult position and I'm sorry for that. One of the first things that came to mind was, have you inquired about Disability? I'm not a huge supporter of abusing government programs, but if this is keeping you from work (and you have prescriptions and doctor diagnosis) then it might be worth looking into. At least in the meantime.

Good luck to you, I'm sorry you're having such a bad time :-(

laurabeth78
Joined May 10, 2011

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