Hello and thanks for the help in advance! I am a 62-year-old Vietnam era veteran. I received a 10% rating in 1972 for SVT and generalized anxiety with underlying depression. In 1983, I re-submitted the claim for evaluation and was given a 30% rating for the same above conditions. Last August, 2009 I submitted a claim for re-evaluation for the above conditions as well as Diabetes, PTSD, neuropathy, liver and thyroid disorders. I felt at that time that I had submitted substantial evidence to substantiate my claim for an increase in the disability rating. I submitted several stressor letters and statements on the incident that started all my medical problems in 1969. I was exposed to the smoke abatement chemical used in aircraft in Vietnam during a fuel probe change in an aircraft just returning from a tour of duty in Vietnam. Yesterday I received the decision letter telling me that I was now diagnosed with PTSD (the Psychiatrist I say in January said I had CHRONIC PTSD and had been mis-diagnosed in 1983). The letter KEPT my disability rating at 30%. I have done
much research on the chemicals used in Vietnam JP-4 jet fuel and it is very clear that ANY or ALL of the conditions that I suffer from can be related to the exposure to the smoke abatement chemicals. The VA does acknowledge my serving in this squadron that used this smoke abatement chemical. In one of my stressor letters, I gave them the full information about me laying in the fuel bladder changing a fuel probe and being immersed in this chemical w/o any protective clothing or breathing protection. The VA did investigate one of my stresser letters and acknowledge that I witnessed a crash while stationed at LeMoore, California and the entire crew of 6 serviceman died. They said, "Therefore, your stressor is conceded herein." Since I do not feel that 30% is a fair rating (and the Psychiatrist agreed that "you've been screwed by the VA for the past 27 years"), I filed a NOD (Notice of Disagreement letter) today with the VA Regional Office in Los Angeles. I am open to any and all suggestions on what to do next. Do I hire an attorney and pay them part of the settlement?
I have contacted the DAV of which I am a lifetime member but they have yet to call me back. Also, does anyone have any idea on what a fair rating would be FOR CHRONIC PTSD that has almost driven me nuts for the past 27 years? Thanks so much for any comments or suggestions.