Just Need To Vent About My Parkinson's Disease

[Papa]

As some or most of you know, I went through a C&P for Parkinsons and was awarded 30%. I have through my Attorney appealed right after the ruling. My Nuerogolgist told me yesterday that he has done about all he can for me. He wants me to see a "Movement Specialist" and see if the Brain stimulator thing may help, but he does not think so. It might help my tremors, but I have started to walk like a drunk sailor. My Grandkids look at me and say, look at Grandpa do funny tricks. But, what really has gotten to me is a friend of mine who is not a veteran, was dianoized with PD. His is not even close to where mine is. He applied at the Social Security Office, and within 6 months he was approved. I realize that the VA basis it on a percentage, but if one agency says a disease is 100%, why is the disease not 100% in the other agency. It would save a ton of paperwork.

Papa

[Chuck75]

"I realize that the VA basis it on a percentage, but if one agency says a disease is 100%, why is the disease not 100% in the other agency."

Because the VA does "it's own thing", usually to the detriment of a veteran.

If you haven't done so, and are under regular retirement age, you should also apply for SSDI.

If an SSA ruling is that you are totally disabled, and it's due to an already SC'd condition, the VA may fight a bit, but will (if necessary, on appeal) either award 100% SC or TDIU.

I have seen an award letter or two from appeal/ review processes that were "mildly" critical of the RO's decision to deny or minimize claims that were already approved by SSA.

What usually happens in such cases is the RO ignores the SSA determination. (No reference to it in the decision.)

In my case, the Nehmer review board cited the SSA determination, said that it was direct evidence of the claimed disability, and the existing medical records more than adequate to prove the level of disability. The VARO (sort of by direction) then proceeded to award virtually all claims, even some that were not specifically claimed, back to the original claim date. Some secondary claims, in my opinion, were "low balled", and appeals were filed, along with a rather obvious CUE.

Edited September 28, 2012 by Chuck75 (see edit history)

[warren]

papa, i was giving 30% disability for parkinson's at first then my personal doctor filled out a va form (parkinson's disease dbq), with all the problem's parkinson's was causing me to have. they were impairment of right and left upper extremities, right and left lower extremities, depression with sleep impairment, balance impairment, speech impairment, constipation, and i was awarded 160% plus smc for loss of use of a creative organ. i filed an NOD on the 30% and the va told me that the 30%, was temporary. all my joints and muscles hurt, no energy, can't sleep at night for the pain do you have the same problems. i take sentimet but it doesn't help the pain (very bad at times), the weakness or sleeping problem. i'm going to see a neurologist/movement disorder specialist. i can stand the pain, weakness and not sleeping. a civilian doctor and pay for it out of my pocket. i wish you the best. i would like to here back from you, i can't find anyone locally to talk to.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

WARREN

[warren]

papa, i forgot one thing. the va approved my parkinson's before i had c&p. they had my social security award where they awarded me disability for neurological problems and they had the dbq from my doctor.

warren

[Papa]

I worked civil service under the old CRS retirement plan, so I did not pay into social security. My private Nuerolgist did write a letter for me, but Warren, the DBQ would be stronger. I just happen to be the first PD C&P exam for this GP. A Office Clerk had to guide him through the exam.

Papa