NeverGiveUp

A good IME OR IMO from a out side Dr. as well as the photos should be help full to support your claim..jmo

I totally agree with Jerrel.

You need the IME report and IMO from your orthopedic surgeon. Although it will not carry as much weight as medical evidence, a statement in support of claim from your wife might be helpful since she has witnessed your medical conditions worsen over time. In my opinion, your wife's statement should be given more weight due to her experience as an orthopedic nurse. Just curious, was the doctor who conducted your orthopedic exam an orthopedic specialist or a general medicine doctor? My last two C & P exams for cancer (multiple myeloma) and a neurological condition were conducted by a nurse practitioner rather than an oncologist and a neurologist.

Definitely submit the photos any any other documentation you can get your hands on that describes the physical requirements and demands of the aircraft crew chief maintenance mechanic. Perhaps a written job description if it lists the physical demands. JMO

Good luck to you and thank you for your service.

Just set up an account after being awarded disability 15 years ago when I retired from the AF. I want to post a word of encouragement to so many of you who are frustrated, mad, angry and sad! DON'T GIVE UP. I have just returned to the chess board to do battle with the mad mad world of VA bureacracy and all that goes with it. Don't get me wrong I get angry and anxious back and forth but I appreciate this forum. I have found much info that I find helpful and some stories are pathetic on how the VA treats the men and women who have given so much of themselves. This year has been the hardest of my life, but I will raise the battle flag high and keep moving forward in hopes that I will NEVER GIVE UP and can help others in their fight to get what they so richly deserve, decency, compassion and respect from people the taxpayers fund to make it right. THANK YOU ALL FOR SERVING OUR GREAT NATION AND I SALUTE YOU!!!!! NEVER GIVE UP!!!!

Welcome and glad to see you fighting!