The State Hath Decreed: Disabled
Grateful for validation; demoralized by implication26 total reviews
Comment from Anne Johnston
Thank you for sharing your daughter's story. I can understand how she would have mixed emotions about this, thankful that she will be getting the support she needs, but humbled by being labeled as disabled. Sounds like she did everything she was able to do before going this route.
reply by the author on 01-May-2021
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Thank you for sharing your daughter's story. I can understand how she would have mixed emotions about this, thankful that she will be getting the support she needs, but humbled by being labeled as disabled. Sounds like she did everything she was able to do before going this route.
Comment Written 28-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 01-May-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She started a new twice-annual infusion treatment last week.
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I am happy for her
Comment from Sharon Davis
This piece speaks to the conflicting emotions that one faces when applying for and being approved for "disability benefits". While relieved to have demonstrated the illness qualifies one for financial assistance, there is the realization of just how severely one's condition has impacted on their abilities to continue to pursue sought after opportunities. It truly is a time of mixed emotions. Your work highlights this dichotomy effectively.
reply by the author on 01-May-2021
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This piece speaks to the conflicting emotions that one faces when applying for and being approved for "disability benefits". While relieved to have demonstrated the illness qualifies one for financial assistance, there is the realization of just how severely one's condition has impacted on their abilities to continue to pursue sought after opportunities. It truly is a time of mixed emotions. Your work highlights this dichotomy effectively.
Comment Written 28-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 01-May-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She started a new twice-annual infusion treatment last week.
Comment from Melodie Michelle
A beautiful yet sad story about being disabled and applying for the benefits! It's a grueling and inconsistent journey for most. Your daughter seems very strong and I'm sure this was hated on her.
Thank you for sharing and many blessings to you and your family;-)
reply by the author on 25-Apr-2021
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A beautiful yet sad story about being disabled and applying for the benefits! It's a grueling and inconsistent journey for most. Your daughter seems very strong and I'm sure this was hated on her.
Thank you for sharing and many blessings to you and your family;-)
Comment Written 25-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 25-Apr-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She started a new twice-annual infusion treatment last week.
Comment from Susan Newell
This is such a good news/bad news tragedy. I was surprised to learn that the State of Massachusetts provides disability, knowing that it is also provided through the Social Security system. Lauren's life will not be easy. I think the hardest thing I have ever done was to admit that I could no longer hold a job and to apply for SS Disability. Fortunately, a nonprofit advocacy group did the work for me and saved me from having to appear in court hours away (which I wasn't physically capable of). Over the years I have learned that the noun "invalid" has a lot in common with the adjective "invalid." I wish Lauren better health in the future and a cure for her pernicious disease.
reply by the author on 19-Apr-2021
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This is such a good news/bad news tragedy. I was surprised to learn that the State of Massachusetts provides disability, knowing that it is also provided through the Social Security system. Lauren's life will not be easy. I think the hardest thing I have ever done was to admit that I could no longer hold a job and to apply for SS Disability. Fortunately, a nonprofit advocacy group did the work for me and saved me from having to appear in court hours away (which I wasn't physically capable of). Over the years I have learned that the noun "invalid" has a lot in common with the adjective "invalid." I wish Lauren better health in the future and a cure for her pernicious disease.
Comment Written 18-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 19-Apr-2021
I'm not sure how it works--state or federal. Never had reason to think about it before!
I know you of all people can empathize--your situation is infinitely worse.
We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Comment from muffinmama
Oh, Liz. Thank goodness Lauren will be cared for, but how awful that she needs to be.
Lauren sounds like an awesome woman.
I can honestly say I know what you're feeling.
There was a time a few years ago, after debilitating battles with bureaucracy, when I turned to my husband and said that I understood (not agreed with, but understood) aged mothers/fathers who carry out a murder-suicide involving their hopelessly disabled children.
Prayers for Lauren and you.
reply by the author on 18-Apr-2021
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Oh, Liz. Thank goodness Lauren will be cared for, but how awful that she needs to be.
Lauren sounds like an awesome woman.
I can honestly say I know what you're feeling.
There was a time a few years ago, after debilitating battles with bureaucracy, when I turned to my husband and said that I understood (not agreed with, but understood) aged mothers/fathers who carry out a murder-suicide involving their hopelessly disabled children.
Prayers for Lauren and you.
Comment Written 17-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 18-Apr-2021
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I know you of all people can empathize--your situation is infinitely worse.
We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
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Go Lauren!!
Comment from judiverse
Yes, "disability benefits" is an oxymoron. At least she (and you) can be assured that she'll be receiving financial support. What a shame when she had a promising career ahead. I'm sorry that her condition seems to be worsening. It must be so frustrating for her. judi
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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Yes, "disability benefits" is an oxymoron. At least she (and you) can be assured that she'll be receiving financial support. What a shame when she had a promising career ahead. I'm sorry that her condition seems to be worsening. It must be so frustrating for her. judi
Comment Written 16-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Thanks for your support!
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You're welcome. Hope the treatment will help. Having her own money will mean less worry for her. judi
Comment from Deniz22
Sorry to hear of this soul-trying time for your daughter and you.
Well written of course, and with an underlying tone of resignation which is not to be mistaken for defeat, but rather acceptance of facts.
It's far more the New England echo of Bill Belichic's famous line after a Patriot's loss; "It is what it is".
We all know he's saying, "We'll deal with it and be prepared for next week".
God bless you and your daughter as you face this opponent together.
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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Sorry to hear of this soul-trying time for your daughter and you.
Well written of course, and with an underlying tone of resignation which is not to be mistaken for defeat, but rather acceptance of facts.
It's far more the New England echo of Bill Belichic's famous line after a Patriot's loss; "It is what it is".
We all know he's saying, "We'll deal with it and be prepared for next week".
God bless you and your daughter as you face this opponent together.
Comment Written 16-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Thanks for your support! And the bonussssss!
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Good for her making the best of a tough situation. I have a close friend with this disease and he is fighting back as well. Best you both, Dennis
Comment from Sherry Asbury
I write this with commiseration, as I have brain-damage from spousal abuse and I call my bad times "oatmeal" days...because that is how I feel trying to pull thoughts forth in a sensible manner. The State of Oregon cares for me. In a week or so I will move to an assisted living floor of a bldg... As I lose cognitive function, I fight like a maddened Wolf to keep going. I am not disabled, but "not-abled". Bless your daughter and tell her of me, please>>
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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I write this with commiseration, as I have brain-damage from spousal abuse and I call my bad times "oatmeal" days...because that is how I feel trying to pull thoughts forth in a sensible manner. The State of Oregon cares for me. In a week or so I will move to an assisted living floor of a bldg... As I lose cognitive function, I fight like a maddened Wolf to keep going. I am not disabled, but "not-abled". Bless your daughter and tell her of me, please>>
Comment Written 16-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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Heartrending! So sorry Sherry.
We were stunned Lauren got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Thanks for your support!
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Best of luck to Lauren!! It is my understanding that MS is a medicare/medicaid covered disability, as it covers loss of cognitive function...it was covered for me and my disability comes from brain damage. I am in your corner!!
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Thank you Sherry!
Comment from Robert Zimmerman
Hello Liz.
I'm sure contending with the symptoms of MS is very difficult. Fortunately, she has qualified for disability. I'm sure that the severity of symptoms expedited the granting of disability. I wish her and you the best.
Robert
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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Hello Liz.
I'm sure contending with the symptoms of MS is very difficult. Fortunately, she has qualified for disability. I'm sure that the severity of symptoms expedited the granting of disability. I wish her and you the best.
Robert
Comment Written 16-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Thanks for your support!
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I have one friend that has monthly infusions.
Comment from Raffaelina Lowcock
This must be heart-wrenching for you. It is for Lauren, of course. But that is a bit of a silver lining for her to have that approval. Liz, she's in my prayers, nightly.
Ralf
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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This must be heart-wrenching for you. It is for Lauren, of course. But that is a bit of a silver lining for her to have that approval. Liz, she's in my prayers, nightly.
Ralf
Comment Written 16-Apr-2021
reply by the author on 16-Apr-2021
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We were stunned she got approved--it must have been because of the cognitive deficits. She has no obvious mobilty issues, normally, for MS you need loss of use of limb to qualify.
She starts a new twice-annual infusion treatment next week.
Thanks for your support!