dfellows5

I do not believe any of the companies that help you apply for a percentage before you go to the BVA could speed up your case.  I doubt even an NOVA lawyer could do that.  The VA works at the VA's own time and it takes a long while for some cases to get through the system.  If you do need to go to the BVA and need a lawyer these companies most likely would only complicate your claim.  Get a VSO and work through him/her to get your case filed.  
You need three things to succeed in a VA case.  A marker in your medical records that the disability can be attributed to military service.  Medical evidence that shows that the condition is chronic.  A nexus that shows that the current condition is connected to the marker in service.  The VA will help you to do this but it may not help you much.  If you are denied and need to go to the BVA I would then hire a NOVA accredited lawyer.

Welcome,
As an old old squid I get it.
As for them being a sham, that is a strong word. They are businesses. nothing more. Unlike Chris Attig at the Veterans Law Blog, which i am a member of, they are out to make money.
Bronco, GB and Vetquests advice is accurate but you ultimately must decide if the cost is worth it too you. Remember with those paid folks the costs of their pet examiners is tacked onto your bill. Their value is that they have those folks on a leash and front their fees and costs. I suspect, but don't know, that they pad that bill when they tack it to your debt to them.
Unless you are on the verge of death and your spouse/heirs are too distraught to dig into the fight, then In my opinion, I would suggest doing the initial filings yourself. Use the VLB training or even consider the NVLSP Basic Training Course online. It is 150 upfront but it teaches you how to be an advocate...and you need an advocate and the best one is you.
https://nvlspbasictrainingcourse.com/product/online-basic-training-course/
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And come here to ask direct and detailed questions.
 

You should get a copy of your c-file and medical records to see what you have for evidence. Seems like you have more than your share of medical issues going on and maybe time is working against you. You have to realize that if you submit claims for several of these disabilities, some or even most will come back denied. So the next round would be to appeal with good medical evidence which takes more time. So part of your decision process is deciding if are you willing to use up some of those months on the hamster wheel, or are you willing to get assistance  up front at a cost, expecting the process will be shorter (for at least some.?) I don't know if this kind of situation applies to you, but if it does the it is something to consider.