RobTip

Thanks, bud-but I was going to retire anyway. The PEBLO folks back-peddled pretty fast when I pointed out their errors with the records they already had. Plus a 2 page letter from my neurosurgeon that stated I was bedridden for over 50% of the year, can't shower safely by myself, can't drive and need assistance to go to the bathroom. The odds are in my favor now--just have to wait a few more weeks for the appeal results. They did document the appeal with a recommendation of 100%, though-we'll see what really happens.

Hi Berta--thanks a bunch! I'm still active duty, and there's a JAG office in base (Elmendorf). I'll give them a call. The odd thing, among others--they never did a ROM test. Thy scheduled it after my findings came back. Also, even though the original head injuries were documented in my records, had been seen a few times per year for migraines since and had scans--they didn't even acknowledge that issue in my claim. Thus whole thing is just odd--and I feel that I'm getting the shaft! Thanks for the advice and links--I'll certainly use them. On another note, and this may help a little--I'm a charter member of the George W. Bush Presidential library and organization. I have correspondence with them monthly, and disabled vets is one of his causes. I may have to fire off the info there too--it sure wouldn't hurt.

Thanks, TBird--I've posted this on a few forums to see what others think.

Hi all,I'm in bit of a pickle and need advice. I'be been active duty AF for22 years and am at the end of the MEB process.I have service related disabilities that caused the MEB.Here's what I have:Severe back and groin pain. Diagnosed by neurosurgeon.Had my L5 S1 replaced with prosthetic disk.Herniated L4 L5Spinal stenosis and L3 L4 partially removed.Constant severe pain in left leg.Constant severe pain left and right groin area.Had electronic stimulator installed.Been on heavy narcotics for 2 years.Been on convalescent leave and bed rest for 12 months straight.Constant migraines due to work injury and several CAT scans.Cannot lay flat or sit up straight.Cannot walk without a cane.6 surguries and countless pain block injections.The PEBLO folks sent off my file without ROM test.Findings came back a week ago with an insulting 20% disability rating.Have to go in tomorrow to sign the findings paperwork, which I will disagree with.I'm pretty sure the PEBLO people did not send in all of my records.They ordered an ROM test for July 6-which is after I have to sign the papers.I also have sleep apnea. I had a test done, but it was right after my first surgery and was on heavy narcotics and could not lay flat. The doc said the test was inconclusive due to those factors and I'd need a retest when I'm not on meds and can lay flat.Because of the lack of use of my left leg, my neurosurgeon ordered a permanent disability tag for my car. But, I still cannot drive due to my leg and back.I know I'm going to have to appeal these findings, and would greatly appreciate any help/advice from this forum.Thanks,Rob