Winning your Social Security Disability Case
TIPS ON CLAIMS SUPPORT GROUPS LINKS IDEAS ADVOCACY
FIGHT FOR YOURSELF NEVER GIVE UP
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF DISABLED CHILDREN ( RIGHTS AND SUPPORT)
________________________________
07/11/08
ALERT FOR ALL THOSE CONCERNED ABOUT DISABILITY RIGHTS AND SSDI IN THIS COUNTRY !!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING AND RESPOND TO THE REQUESTS IF YOU CARE ABOUT WHAT THE GOVERNMENT IS/IS NOT DOING WITH DISABILITY BENEFITS.
I got the information below from a disability support site called :
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY COALITION
"Hi Everyone,
I ask that all members here please immediately take a few seconds to contact your elected officials on passing total reform of the SS Disability program, and getting the SSA proper funding in order to make this a reality once and for all. We have made it very easy for you to accomplish this task. A form letter has been set up for you through the Center For Disability Rights and Capwiz. All you have to do is put in the info about you that it asks for, in the take action section of the screen, hit the send message button, and the letter will automatically be faxed to all the proper Congresspeople that it needs to go to.
Demand Reform In The Social Security Disability Program
http://capwiz.com/rochestercdr/issues/alert/?alertid=11482381&type=CU&az ip=14624&bzip=4135&show_alert=1
You cannot get any easier than this to make a difference. There are some things happening in the next few weeks in regards to funding for the SSA etc and Congress needs to be made aware of how urgent this situation is for all of you. Also please send the link to your family members and friends or anyone else you can think of.
It is a fact, that disabled Americans are the LARGEST minority group in this country, and it is time we use our strength to get these problems solved now. Here is your chance to use that power.
Also please tell all the media outlets you can (newspapers, TV, radio) about your problems with the Social Security Disability process, the Social Security Disability Reform Petition and the Social Security Disability Coalition.Find and contact national and local media:
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/dbq/media
NOTE: If you get any interest have them contact me at:
ssdcoalition@hotmail.com
So please act now and take this chance to make a difference. Thanks as always for your support - we could not have come this far without you. Be well!
Sign the Social Security Disability Reform Petition – read the horror stories from all over the nation:
http://www.petitiononline.com/SSDC/petition.html
Linda Fullerton
President/Co-Founder – Social Security Disability Coalition"
IF YOU ARE NOT PART OF THE SOLUTION , YOU ARE PART OF THE PROBLEM !
NEED HELP WITH HOUSING ?
"Opening Doors is a housing initiative designed to provide information and technical assistance on affordable housing issues to people with disabilities, their families, advocates, and service providers across the United States." From what I have read on this site , they help with finding housing and obtaining it . I am not sure if they have housing themselves. It does seem like a good organization though.
http://www.c-c-d.org/task_forces/housing/intro_page.htm
04/21/08
This website has support groups . What is so different about that ?
They have over 500 groups.
There are professionals to talk to .
They are support groups for TONS of different areas of life .
Instant help for how to feel better.Find someone in your "boat" including very rare conditons. Check it out. Just the name is comforting . A place where you do not have to pretend that everything is alright.
"How DailyStrength Works
- Sign Up for a free account and be as anonymous as you want to be
- Start A Wellness Journal. Sharing your story with others is a crucial part of your healing process.
- Invite Friends and Family. Harness the power and passion of the people that love you.
- Join a Support Community and instantly meet other people who share your challenge.
- Make Online Friends with other Members to easily stay up to date with each other's progress.
- Give and Receive Support. Send a private messages or a Hug to a Member in need.
- Get Email Updates with recent community activity and your Friend's progress.
Most everyone has a serious personal challenge themselves or has someone close to them that does. DailyStrength is a collection of safe, anonymous, online support groups focused on over 500 specific challenges to help people overcome their personal challenge or support a loved one through theirs.
DailyStrength isn't just for those living with a challenge themselves - care givers, supporters and medical professionals are welcome as well. Everyone can use a helping hand once in a while and our mission is to provide a safe forum where people can connect with others who know exactly what they're going through. "
http://dailystrength.org/support-groups
03/31/08 TIPS FOR EMERGENCIES from the American Red Cross:
Specific Information for People with Disabilities:
If you use a battery-operated wheelchair, life-support system or other power-dependent equipment, call your power company before rolling blackouts happen. Many utility companies keep a list and map of the locations of power-dependent customers in case of an emergency. Ask them what alternatives are available in your area. Contact the customer service department of your local utility company(ies) to learn if this service is available in your community.
If you use a motorized wheelchair or scooter, have an extra battery. A car battery also can be used with a wheelchair but will not last as long as a wheelchair's deep-cycle battery. If available, store a lightweight manual wheelchair for backup.
If you are blind or have a visual disability, store a talking or Braille clock or large-print timepiece with extra batteries.
If you are deaf or have a hearing loss, consider getting a small portable battery-operated television set. Emergency broadcasts may give information in American Sign Language (ASL) or open captioning.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FIGHTING FOR DISABILITY -
We need all the help we can get on this one. It seems that , at least in my case , my social worker is working against me , not for me.
The system can't win !
Many of us are suffering out here ,and we need to show people how we are being treated.
SPEAK OUT
If you are in danger of becoming homeless , you may be able to submit a dire needs letter that will make your case go faster. This seems to be one of the only suggestions that the agency gives out for "help" in making a case go faster :
DIRE NEED SITUATION LETTER.
11/28/07
Here is another link that may be helpful if you are fighting for social security.
Advocating for Chronic Conditions, Entitlements and Social Services (A.C.C.E.S.S.)
Experts in insurance issues such as continuation of coverage and high risk pools. Downloadable brochure available.
www.accredotx.com/access/access.html
~
~
This is a guide from the patient advocacy- this is for appealing a case for insurance- people (pdf.) that you might find helpful :
Your Guide to the Appeals Process (document)
http://www.patientadvocate.org/pdf/pubs/appeal_guide.pdf
~
~
02/19/08
This organization is for global change in the way that people with disabilities are treated.
They do advocate for families that have disability challenges too . Here is some information from the site :
Although TASH 's work is often on a global level, equally, if not more significant, is the direct support we provide individuals with disabilities and their family members. We serve as a clearinghouse for the daily reporting of treatment that is unjust or that limits opportunity. We provide information, linkage with resources, expert assistance toward fighting inequities, legal expertise, and targeted advocacy. We bring to the assistance of individuals in need, the backing of our thousands of members worldwide and the support of a national organization committed to social justice for all people.
http://www.tash.org/information_statements_resourses.html
ADVICE FOR CLAIMS.
HOW TO ..... DIFFERENT TIPS ON YOUR CASE.
MORE TIPS TO WIN YOUR CASE.
Another very good page link from the people at About dot com:
SOCIAL SECURITY TIPS AND STRATEGIES
If you want to get riled up about disability and Social Security reform , here is a petition that lists some facts. It seems to be a paper from 2003 , but it's sad that it still applies.
PETITION ONLINE.
Here is a support forum and a group that searches for and stores information about SSD:
"The Social Security Disability Coalition
offers information and support with a focus on reforming the Social Security Disability System. We continually collect information related to the protocols used by the Social Security Disability Insurance program. We collect this information to search for systematic patterns in those protocols, and or arbitrary actions, that cause one of our frailest populations, the disabled, undue stress and economic hardship. Concerned by what transpires with ALL aspects of the Social Security Disability claims process, and the final outcome, we look for patterns of both abuse and success where available, and examples of the hardships experienced during the entire process. "
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY COALITION.
Being disabled seems to be a neglected are of PREJUDICE in the world.(As is being poor )
There are people fighting for gay rights ,and ethnic issues ,and all sorts of rights , but how about RIGHTS FOR THE DISABLED !?
WE ARE FIGHTING PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CHALLENGES
AND
TRYING TO FIGHT FOR OUR RIGHTS !
DO WE ROCK OR WHAT ?
Here is another group that is fighting.
"The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities is a coalition of approximately 100 national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the self determination, independence, empowerment, integration and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society."
CCD.
I was watching a show by Tyra Banks today where she talks about ignorance and prejudice . She had white people dress as black people, and the other way around , to promote acceptance and empathy. She also talked about people and their ignorance against Muslims and others that aren't "just like me , so they are wrong or going in the wrong direction , or weird"
What would it be like if she had people go around in a wheelchair all day and try to use the restroom , enter different businesses ,and ride the bus ? Waiting at a bus stop with a disability is hell when it is cold and raining , or when there is a blizzard outside. There is no choice to stay home though , if you need meds or have to see the doctor and the bus is the only way to get there.
It is time that people with disabilities have a voice that is listened to.
Here are some people who are doing something:
ADA EMPOWERMENT GROUP.
Here is someone who is being active about disability :
"We are a Worldwide disability civil rights, ADA, advocacy, support, information and discussion group.
We try to make the people aware of the needs and laws of the disabled. We share newsletters and discuss them. Our members are kept well informed. We also try to assist each other to the best of our abilities. We welcome members who are either disabled with any disability, caregiver, advocate, professional or non-disabled.
Our members are welcome from throughout the United States and Worldwide.
We have our own archives, photo albums, link sites and polls. Feel free to research or add to any of these resources.
This group was founded on July 5, 2002. The reason I founded it was because of the horrible manner other people and myself were being treated in other groups. I decided I wanted to help others as much as I could so my group would not be like the others and that I would treat others the way I would want to be treated... " -Alan, Founder / Moderator
DISABILITY RIGHTS NEWS AND VIEWS.
Another group that is fighting for our rights :
"Over 54 million people in this country suffer from some form of disability. No less important are the reported statistics of discrimination and hardship they go through everyday!"
"Whether you are disabled or are close to somebody who is, this site is dedicated to helping everyone understand the plight of the disabled and the continued struggle for acceptance and integration into mainstream society. "
"Since its inception, the Philadelphia-based Disabilities Rights Advocacy Group Inc. (D.R.A.G.), has been a major lobbying force for curb cuts along City sidewalks, making Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) accessible. This action set a National trend, as a result, now ATMs are accessible across the Country. D.R.A.G. Inc., is responsible for the installation of ramps and lifts at many Federal, State, and Public Facilities. The Organization is continually encouraging and monitoring the private sector to upgrade their building facilities and make them accessible and more user friendly to the disabled. "
D. R . A .G..
"The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund
founded in 1979, is a leading national civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities and parents who have children with disabilities.
The mission of the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund is to advance the civil and human rights of people with disabilities through legal advocacy, training, education, and public policy and legislative development."-
Unfortunately , many of us with disabilities are having to take legal measures in order to survive. Reform is a key word here !
DISABILITY RIGHTS EDUCATION AND DEFENSE FUND.
The more we know , the better it is for our case. Write out your daily needs , your challenges , keep a journal , be proactive.
We might educate some lawyers and doctors too , who sometimes do not research the disability you have.
Be informed
Let people know you mean business.
Advocate for yourself.
IF YOU HAVE A DOCTOR OR A LAWYER WHO SEEMS DISINTERESTED, OR DOES NOT BELIEVE IN YOU , OR DOES NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT YOUR DISABILITY
THEY ARE NOT YOUR ADVOCATE !
GET NEW HELP.
I wasted over a year with a 'friend' who was a lawyer . He didn't want to admit that he couldn't handle a disability case . (he is a tax lawyer)
They are providing you with a service , not the other way around.
Always remember that YOU are in charge. Not the medical profession ,and not your lawyer( but they do deserve as much respect and tactfulness as you do)
YOU direct where things go with you.
RESEARCH PAGE.
WHAT IS THAT TEST FOR ANYWAY ? WHY DO I HAVE TO HAVE ANOTHER TEST ?
Another site that will help us know what is going on with our situation is this one , for finding out what any test we might have is all about
http://www.health.harvard.edu/diagnostic-tests/
This is a link page for disability law . Do they live up to their word ? You decide ! ; )
BEST INFORMATION ON THE NET FOR DISABILITY LAW LINKS.
Here is another page full of tips that will supposedly help you speed up the process of getting your disability income . As with all other sites , YOU decide whether it will help or not.
I did find some information that I didn't know about.
SELF-GROWTH ARTICLES-SOCIAL SECURITY.
What is PACER Center?
PACER Center is a parent training and information center for families of children and youth with all disabilities from birth through 21 years old. Located in Minneapolis, it serves families across the nation, as well as those in Minnesota. Parents can find publications, workshops, and other resources to help make decisions about education, vocational training, employment, and other services for their children with disabilities.
Here is another site with many pages addressing disability challenges .
DISABILITY SECRETS DOT COM
If you are looking for disability , daily living and other resources that are in your state , go to this page and click on your state on the map (ignore what it says about Katrina because there is so much more than that available )
http://katrinadisability.info/index.html
"Best Information on the Web" Resources for disibility and adaptive technology on the net . ( You be the judge - are they really the very best on the web ? )
BEST INFO DISIBILITY AND ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES.
MORE LEGAL ASSISTANCE ,some by state
SUPPORT GROUPS
I just found this site on the web ( 12/5/07) ,and it looks interesting .So far , I really like what they have to say . I also like that there is an online community . Those of us who don't get out enough because of our disabilities need all the support and community as we can get . Here is what they say about themselves :
Disaboom.com
was founded by Dr. J. Glen House, a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation who is also a quadriplegic. His firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and those whose lives they touch has driven the Disaboom.com mission: to create the first comprehensive, evolving source of information, insight, and personal engagement for the disability community.
Disaboom.com is based on the following core beliefs:
Expertise comes in many forms. Often the best advice comes not just from medical experts but also from “peers” – others who’ve walked the path you’re on. That’s why in addition to providing solid medical expertise, we’ve also put together the largest online network of individuals to share their personal experiences with you, providing honest, practical answers to hard questions.
Knowledge is power – and so is community. Disaboom.com strives to provide you the tools and guidance you need to live active, engaged lives. But when it comes to sharing stories and personal insights, there’s nothing stronger than the power of community – which is why we’re connecting the millions touched by disability to both information and each other.
You don’t have to be disabled to be touched by disability. The Disaboom.com community is as diverse as the communities we live in, made up of mothers and models, surfers and surgeons, babies and baby boomers. Our network of 180 million and growing includes not just individuals with disabilities, but also medical practitioners, caregivers, employers, family members, teachers, and others. In so many important ways, people with disabilities may be anyone – and everyone.
The word “disability” may apply to us – but will never define us. We decide who we are, and what lives we will create. The goal of Disaboom.com is to provide the information, community, and connection you need to define who you are, and what life you will lead.
DISABOOM DOT COM - LIVE FORWARD !
A FREEBIE FOR THOSE OF US WHO ARE DISABLED ( G-d knows we need all the freebies we can get !)
America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass – Access Pass - Free.
|
|
This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Documentation is required to obtain the pass. Acceptable documentation includes: statement by a licensed physician; document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income; or document issued by a State agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas (children under 16 are admitted free). The pass can only be obtained in person at the park. The Access Pass provides a 50 percent discount on some Expanded Amenity Fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and specialized interpretive services. In some cases where Expanded Amenity Fees are charged, only the pass holder will be given the 50 percent price reduction. The pass is non-transferable and generally does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessionaires.
|
Having trouble finding or keeping a doctor ? Try this search for Medicare doctors . By location , and name.
http://www2.medicare.gov/Physician/Search/PhysicianSearch.asp?CookiesEnabledStatus=True
________________________________________
For help with paying for meds or assistive devices , food , rent , transportation , free and low cost living ideas ,and more , go here :
MY OTHER AIDPAGES FOR FREE HELP
________________________________________
