I think I last posted back in November buy I haven't really been gone all that time.  Shortly after that some changes were made to the site and, for some reason, it would no longer load for me.  It was oh so frustrating, as if this whole MS thing wasn't frustrating enough!

At some point (a month or so later) I was again able to access the site and I've been a silent observer ever since. 

I lost my job back in October, due to issues with walking, talking, thinking and staying awake... all things I haven't been able to do so well since since October 9!  Depression became the thing I did/do best... but I'm having better days now.  Still not walking, talking, thinking or staying awake well... but I'm adjusting... kinda... sorta... maybe...

Anyway, the last time I posted here it was to ask for some advice on filing for Soc Sec Disab.  Alot of you responded  and your thoughts and comments were greatly appreciated.  Thank you!

I applied over the phone on 11/09 and they mailed me some additional paperwork, that my daughter helped me fill out, regarding the effect this disease has on my daily life.  (Boy, that was an eye opener.. I knew I was messed up but putting it all on paper made me realize just how messed up I was!)

Anyway, the next I heard form them my application was in Columbus being reviewed by the person who gathers all of the medical documentation and, ultimately, approves or rejects.  In April they asked me to see a psychiatrist for an evaluation at their expense, they said it was the last peice of info they needed,  I saw their psychiatrist on April 17 and when I called the end of April I was told my application had been approved and that I would receive an award letter the middle of June and a check approx. 2 weeks later.

As it turns out I was called into my local SS office today where I was told the monthly benefit amount I will receive and that my claim was approved back to October, so my first payable month would have been April--paid on 5/3.  She said it will all go thru now and I will receive the April and May payment on 6/3 and then the 3rd of every month thereafter.  To say I'm relieved is a huge understatement.

I was prepared to be denied because the consensus seems to be that almost everyone is denied their first time applying.  I truly believe that the cooperation and prompt attention to any and all requests for information from the people at Kaiser Permanente helped tremendously. 

I feel as if a great weight has been lifted and I'm making a little promise to myself to make the most of whatever life has to offer me from here on out.

Thank you all so much for sharing your thoughts, worries and triumphs here.  I may have been a silent observer these past few months but please know that I'm here and that you've all helped me thru many, many rough days.  :)

--Pam