Just an update

[mvd]

Social Security disability called today and they sounded happy. They were just checking on when my hearing test is - it is August 13 at Costco. My friend will take me since I am not a member. I don’t know if the tone of the conversation means anything, but I hope it does.

DU has been wonderful giving me the support I need while I sort things out. Words can’t express how wonderful DU has been. I am still in a hole but what was given in the last GoFundMe is giving me some time. My mom and I had a nice middle class lifestyle for a long time and it has been a hard adjustment. It is like we didn’t know how to be different. But things will be better for us if we make uncomfortable changes - both in our budget and seeking services that can help.

Still talking to an aunt through Messenger, but she is uncomfortable with how we broke communications off. Having a little family back would be nice.

I really hope to have good updates soon. I never meant to dismiss anything - if you felt dismissed, I am sorry. Mom and I need better times and are exploring opportunities.

Some good political news about the raid on Trump’s place helps my mood.

[Enter stage left]

1. I'm so happy you're going to Costco for your tests...

My wife lost almost all of her hearing about 10-12 years ago. We went to Costco because their hearing and eye doctors are on hourly rather than commission. We have been using them ever since, her hearing aids have made a huge difference in her life, and both of us use the optical for our prescriptions and glasses.

Costco rocks.

[mvd]

2. Yep, that is where I got my current hearing aids

They have lasted for years. One of them needs to be repaired when I get the money (or maybe they can do something at my appointment.)

So happy they work well for your wife and you too!

[mvd]

4. I'll update again after the Costco appointment

[demtenjeep]

5. so you had your friend take you before?

that's good

[mvd]

6. Yes she helps with rides

Very thankful to her. She does what her schedule allows.

[grantcart]

3. I also recommend an audiologist who has a practice

Independent of an ENT specialist and sells hearing aids for Medicare patients for $ 699/999.

Even if you aren't on Medicare it's a sign they are ethical.

[mvd]

7. Got my hearing test

Was overall similar to the other recent hearing tests. Some frequencies a little better and some a little worse. Now I have done my part. The decision should come soon.

[XanaDUer2]

8. Is this your first try at SSDI? NT

[mvd]

9. Yes

Finally should be getting a decision now after nearly a year. Is that time frame normal?

[demtenjeep]

10. Anything yet

?

[mvd]

11. Yes, they called to say they got the test results

It was on the answering machine. I will call tomorrow to ask some more questions.

What a mess I am in. There won’t be much coming in next month and I owe this Uber driver for helping us out. Relative wouldn’t help and friend doesn’t have more money.

[mvd]

12. One good thing is I think this Uber driver can be a friend

We need more people in our lives. Yes, we owe him money Wednesday, but getting a friend is worth it.

[demtenjeep]

14. you don't want to over use a "friend"

that is what got you in trouble here

[mvd]

18. Yeah, it is one time

But unlike with my real estate agent friend I do not want this to turn into that. Just a regular friend would be good..

[XanaDUer2]

15. Do you know what your ssdi payment would be?

SSI is less. Frankly, if SSDI or SSI isn't that much, you may want to consider a full-time job. It seems you have money shortages monthly.

Were you able to get free or inexpensive rides per the many suggestions from your last 2 threads? There is probably job training for the disabled locally. You will not get your mom's SS once she passes. You need to factor all this into your life plan.

[mvd]

16. Not sure

It wouldn’t be a lot but anything would help.

I have seen some possible rides for Medicaid recipients. With mom on Medicare I feel there should be some for her too. Still looking and am hopeful.

A lot to think about. Kind of taking a DU break while I try to get things better.

[XanaDUer2]

17. Good luck nt

[mvd]

19. Thanks!

I badly want to post a good update.

[XanaDUer2]

13. Can be 2 yrs per attorney nt

ETA: YMMV

[mvd]

20. No kidding

It has taken forever.

I don’t feel bad about the Uber friend. I have given him more than I can afford for next month. Plus a free vacuum, freezer, smart watch and my old iPad.