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Well, my percentage got bumped up to 100%, P&T (PTSD increased to 70%); however, the A&A got denied. Said I didn't meet the requirements, even though as I read the regulation, seems like I do. I am not bed ridden; however, because of my PTSD and other disabilities (I use a wheelchair, cannot drive myself, memory issues, back ailments), I am somewhat confined to my home. I am unable to cook, move around, need help dressing myself, hubby is my 'unofficial' caregiver and assists me in all aspects, including daily consitituional of hygine, etc. I think the doctor did not provide enough detail on the DBQ form and also, I did not have a C&P exam regarding A&A. Now I am wondering if I should leave it alone, file a reconsideration, etc. any suggestions?

thanks for the good advice. Yes, the walker is for a service connected condition, as well as the wheelchair.

Thanks. I have copies of the ER visit, both before and after. The doctor states the reason for the return visit was because of the fall. It also states the results of the xrays taken. have the incident reports from the VA police officer who responded, as well as from the security officer who witnessed the fall. I also have the disk from a follow up MRI I had to do after seeing the nuro doctor, who has referred me to the surgeon.

**Sorry** forgot to add - falls under premises liability

I did research, along with discussions with lawyers. Slip and fall accidents on military/government property fall under TORT. TORT is not just for malpractice issues.

In august, after leaving the DC VA emergency room (high on pain killers), my husband was pushing me in my walker (extreme sciatica pain - which is why I was at the ER, plus I was under the effects of a pain shot), my walker's wheel got caught on a large crack on the sidewalk and I fell backwards onto the cement. I am an MST/PTSD vet, I had a panic attack and refused to return to the ER. Also, since I had received a shot for pain, I was not feeling any. I did return to the ER two days later, because when I woke up the next day, I could not walk at all. The pain shot had worn off and I was in extreme pain. I am filing a tort claim. I already am rated for herneated disks and sciatica. This fall set me back hard. I was in my weelchair for a month straight and still must use it more than I did before. Any advice on both the TORT claim and the amount I should ask for? thanks in advance.

First, Carlie - I love you! Thanks for the advice. I apologize in advance. I have extreme memory/confusion issues. I am a federal worker. On the disability retirement application, one of the OPM requirements is that you must file for SS disability at tlhe same time and show proof that you did. I contacted SSN and was told that I would be automatically denied because I am still working. So, the only options I have are 1. file for disability retirement or 2. file for early retirement. I'm going to talk with my doctor to see if she will provide documentation which will support my retirement. My question is, if I file for early retirement can I still file for SS disability? thanks to all

Exactly! I hate Ebenefits. Everytime I would go on that site, I would have a major meltdown. Don't even go there anymore. It's as useless as calling the 800 number.

Afternoon. I am currently at 90% - 50% for PTSD. Because of rage/depression/paranoia/panic attacks, I have been required to work from home for over a year (workers don't want to deal with me). My symptoms have gotten worse over the years and my doctor is ready to fill out the DBQ for mental disorders so that I can apply for an increase for my PTSD. Because of the above, and because of other ailments, I am getting ready to file for a disability retirement (I am a federal worker). My question is: I already know I will get denied because one of the questions is - Are you currently working? which is yes. I will have to work until my disability retirement is approved. It is a catch 22 situation. I cannot apply for a disability retirement without showing proof that I have also filed for SSD; however, you can't get approved for SSD if you are working. WTF? Do I go ahead and file for a disability retirement, even though I will get automatically denied by SSA? Or do I take an early retirement, with a penalty? SO confusing.

I'm still working; however, am going to submit for retirement this month. I have been having issues with my job/supervisor for the past few years. I had to file an EO complaint for disability discrimination. I had asked to be able to work from home in 2011 because my ptsd symptoms were getting worse and my rage/anger issues were increasing, plus my other disabilities were getting worse. After I filed the EO complaint, I was able to work from home; however, I am now to the point where I am not getting any better. I want to enjoy whatever time I have left on this earth. All the above to say, that I can't file for disability until I retire. I'm trying to determine if I should file for an early retirement and then file for social security or file for a disability retirement.

I sent my VA Psych doc an email asking her to fill out the DBQ. My symptoms have gotten worse, so I think if she does fill it out, I will apply for an increase. thanks

I am currently rated at 50% for ptsd; however, my symtoms seems to have gotten worse. I now suffer from paranoia (medication); extreme anxiety and panic attacks (medication); more mood swings, and I now am a permanent telecommuter working at home because I can't deal with people (rage issues). I lose track of time, can't remember things, and am seriously considering just retiring from my job. Can't take it anymore. I don't go out of the house unless absolutely necessary and my family ususally does all household chores. Do you think I should apply for an increase?

Just an update on my question. My doctor filled out the Form 21-2680, attached my functions test report and sent it to the social worker, who submitted it to the regional office.

hello, all. I currently receive VA comp; however, with my various limitations, I need dailsy asssistance and don't drive anymore. Can I qualify for aid and attendance? thanks

Well, I'm still standing in that loooooonnnnng line, waiting for an increase decision. I had been having success with the IRIS, at least, I had at least been getting responses; however, over the last couple of months, I have received no replies. I then called the 800 number and had to make a phone appointment for a week later. That conversation was extremely confusing as I was given no good information. the person on the other end could tell me nothing. what a waste. So, I contacted the DAV and am now waiting to hear from them. I pray that other vets in worse shape than me are getting faster results. TOP

Help. I tried to follow the document but have a hard time concentrating. Can someone answer these questions for me? I really don't understand. 1. I have filed for an increase in two of my disabilities. One is for my back problems which have gotten so bad I havdise been forced to telework from home on a permanent basis. I can barely walk long distances without assistance. I don't drive anymore. 2. I am a federal worker and am considering seriously applying for a medical/disability retirement. 3. Will I qualify for a TDIU? thanks, TOP

Has anyone heard of the Tiger Team?

Hope all is well with everyone. Been battling diabetes complications. I was somewhat depressed because my claim for diabetes had been denied, and quite frankly, I really don't feel well enough these days to fight it - perhaps another day. I had initially filed a claim for my knees in 2007; however, never heard anything, even though I kept asking for information. In 2009, I re-filed that claim, along with some other documentation and got rated in 2010. I received a letter from the VA this month stated that it was an CUE because the claim should have been settled in 2007. So, I was happy to find out this information - it brightened my mood somewhat. Perhaps I will find the will and strength to fight the diabetes claim. Anyways, just wanted to share. I wish everyone well in this journey.

Thank you, Berta, you've given me a lot to think about and consider. Sorry about the confusion in my postings. There is no documentation in my Active Duty medical records, except for a test I had to have done at Walter Reed - I had swollen kidneys - nephritis. I am trying to track that down. All documentation is in my Reserve records. I will review what you wrote - I appreciate it. Thanks millions.

I separated from active duty in 1992 and finished my time in the reserves; however, there is no documentation in my military medical records that I had diabetes. It just got progressively worse over the years.

I have Diabetes Type II. While on active duty, 78-92, I did get sent to Walter Reed for some type of test and was found to have nephritis (sp). That doctor kept asking if I had diabetes in my family, which I did not. Again, while pregnant, I was asked the same thing. That doctor told me I probably had the beginnings of diabetes; however, don't tell anyone and to exercise and lay off the starch. I got off active duty in 92 and went into the reserves. In 2004, I had an army physical and was found to have diabetes. I went through a medical board and was found fit to stay in the program. The diabetes got worse, and in 2010, I was issued a profile which stated the diabetes, plus no field rations. I was also informed that I was not qualified to serve anymore, so I retired. My question is, can I file a claim as the condition worsened over the years, or should I just leave it alone? thanks, TOP

What is a "tender scar?" Let me know about this. thanks

This would be complication secondary to pregnancy (episiotomy damage, induced labor damage, c-section damage) I already am at 40% for incontinence due to pregnancy. Thank you - you are my angel!

[hahahahah! love it!

Thanks, but I've been on this site long enough to know those I really trust with giving me good advice. Don't let the pic fool you - I am a crusty, retired 1SG!