justrluk

Thanks, Bonc - I'll start looking for one.

Bronc, I posted in another's post, but added my 2008 request for EED on my P&T rating. Currently dated 2015 (date of the C&P), but felt it should have been 2008 (date of the claim that was granted). Shows closed on eBenefits, and no change in date. At what point do I get a lawyer?? Now I'm confused and frustrated all over again!!

So, I had an appeal sitting since 2008 (request for EED). I sent in my form and now the appeal shows closed on eBenefits. No change in the date of the issue granted, though and no back-pay. Waiting to see what actually happened, if anything. I'll post when I see/hear something.

So sorry to hear about TB - the ads on TV aren't there for nothing. Also, regardless of who prescribed your Humira, the fact that it works on both diseases (one in the same, really) should be what counts. Have you stopped taking the Humira due to the TB?

I have psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. It took several years for the VA to recognize the PsA and the level of acute symptoms. When were you diagnosed? Did you have any symptoms while on active duty? Also, when did you notice the start of psoriasis outbreaks? Mine were relatively close together, and PsA was rated separately from psoriasis. I thought this was odd, but either way was happy with the rating. I ended up having to provide the documents that linked PsA directly to psoriasis (believe me, I thought this was stupid). The C&P doc also documented the comorbidity of psoriasis and PsA

First, I'm so sorry you experienced this. No one should ever have to witness what you experienced. The sense of helplessness you experienced is normal for those normally in a position to defend and help those that can't do for themselves. CBT is designed to help you re-map your thinking by thinking about what you are thinking and feeling. You are attempting to replace unsupported conclusions with fact-based reasoning. It's not an easy task. My suggestion: remember your wife loves you. You control your thoughts and reactions, so start doing it. She deserves the best 'you' you can offer. Yo

Could be because of a number of factors. If someone had priority placement (displaced employee, returning from overseas assignment, etc.) they have first right of refusal. Vets with preference still tend to make the list, but you never get to make a selection when a priority one or two hits the list as a match for the position. Were you referred? If so, you should have gotten a letter or email. You can also contact the hiring agency and ask about the status. Also, USAjobs will link you to the application manager. You can check your status there. As a point of reference, I had a new position cr

I'm on the same med. Just be careful: your (and my) skin may be clear, but read the warnings. I spent last year in and out of the hospital because I wasn't producing white blood cells and perforated my colon = really bad scene. Also, I developed breathing problems after starting Humira over a decade ago. Never smoked, but developed asthma. Just be aware (as I am sure you are) of the warnings that come with Humira. Right now, the VA is going to re-evaluate the drug for me as the best option. It has worked to slow the disease (psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis) but at a cost. Also, even if

I spent a lot of time fighting with the VA about my rating for psoriasis. Even though I take biologics, because they were prescribed by the rheumatologist and not the dermatologist, they said the rule didn't apply to psoriasis, but to psoriatic arthritis. You have to go down the road of taking photos of break-outs, things effected when you have flare-ups (e.g., can't go swimming, can't do 'things' with my spouse, etc...) and a journal of the days/weeks/months these happen. I've also had the VA stop my biologics for various reasons and I documented what happened as a result. Also, don't forget

I know this is an old topic, but I am wondering what the results have been for those that have had bathrooms modified due to service-connected conditions? I have severe bouts of arthritis and the only real help at times is soaking for long periods in a tub of hot water. The problem is, when I'm in bad shape I can't get in and out of a tub very easily and the water isn't deep enough to cover me (I'm not a very large person, mind you). I also have real trouble opening door knobs, milk bottles, etc. Can anyone offer their experiences with asking the VA for help? Thanks!

In several ways, I'm in the same boat. I was medically retired, but see no retirement income. The offset of VA comp takes care of that. I'm still repaying my disability severance received from the AF, which if I knew it would only be a loan, I would have hired a lawyer to help keep me in the service as long as possible. Water under the bridge at this point. In the process, I went bankrupt paying medical bills until the VA started taking care of the biggest medical issues. I paid all creditors and got to keep my 11-year-old vehicle. Most of the compensation I got from the VA covered housing and

Just for clarification: your overall percentage is 100% and you have confirmation of Chapter 35 benefits and no further examinations scheduled? If so, working is up to you. If you are TDIU (v. P&T), your rating suggests you are 100% *and/due to* inability to work. So, if 100% P&T, yes you can work. Not P&T (should show on your commissary letter or in a decision if you are), you can work if 100% schedular (total using VA math). 100% due to TDIU, work has limitations.

Contact the service secretary office and raise a fuss. You should have been copied on all actions, and had a chance to appeal the decision while you were in service. If you disagreed with the findings or percentage (like the VA), there is an appeal process = due process.

This is a topic near and dear to me. I've been hired through the program and have hired others with preference. From the inside, you tend to get a really long list. Most on the list for the most recent fill action I worked (as the hiring official) had veterans preference. Only two on the referral list did not. Of those on the list, most had some experience for the position I was hiring. Some were so far off, I couldn't tell how the SEU put them on the list. The only thing preference does is give you a position on the list. Once there, your resume has to carry you to the finish. Also, if you wo