I was too in the same boat . I was honorably discharged in 1996 and never had discharge physical. I left with a sick child and couldn’t even get 90d worth of medication . To make a long story short .. 2012 I lost my job and was looking for work when I stumbled across volunteers of America and they ask me if I filed any claims which I said no. I then got assistance and filed a claim on my painful appendectomy scars and had no idea what I was doing. I received 0% . Then in 2015 I was ask if I ever filed a claim for my ptsd due to getting treatment and again said no becsause I didn’t know I had ptsd from MST. I filed 2015 and received 50%. Then I ask why nobody helped me in 1996. I was struggling had no job and a sick baby. My response was “ ma’am is was a missed opportunity” nothing I could do now but move forward with such hate and anger built up. Why after I served my time nobody cares about me.... as you can tell we aren’t the only ones. Look at the Vietnam Vets just filing claims. I have such bitterness in my heart out military would do is this way. Now I’m 100% from 2015 50% 2017 grantees 70% and then ramp appeal granted me 100%. So go to a veteran service office or DAV tell them your circumstances but you too do your job. Get all your records from non va facilities , friends and family to build your case. Be prepared and fight back. I hope this helps and keep your head up.