Nexus letter if I have photographic proof?

[LKF050813]

Hello, new here. Working through getting an increase on my s/c issues and it has been brought to my attention I should have had my left knee s/c this whole time (medically retired 12 years ago). I have photographs of me competing in triathalons while wearing a knee brace on my left knee while on active duty. Platts data with my matching bib number backs up the dates of the photographs. Is this enough for the VA to service connect or should I still get a nexus letter? I’m s/c for pes planus and right knee, so could definitely get a letter for left knee secondary to those issues, but would prefer to just submit what I have. It seems like a smoking gun, but don’t want to assume how the VA will look at this.

Thank you!

[relatively happy camper]

Ok, I understand that but why not apply now.  Just sayin'.  Took me 31yrs but I won it all.

 

[LKF050813]

23 minutes ago, relatively happy camper said:

Ok, I understand that but why not apply now.  Just sayin'.  Took me 31yrs but I won it all.

 

The way I understand PacMan is I can’t apply now bc at only being rated 80%, I currently don’t rate it. I have a pending claim for s/c increases and new TDIU claim. If I end up high enough, I could rate SMC and either automatically qualify for it or file for it at that time.

Anyone and everyone feel free to correct me if I’m wrong. Still learning as I go here.

[pacmanx1]

2 hours ago, LKF050813 said:

Anyone and everyone feel free to correct me if I’m wrong. Still learning as I go here.

Not only do you not qualify at the present time, filing any claim this late when you are already pending a decision would most like delay your decision.