tell me your experiences trying to qualify for SSDI or SSI

[GWC58]

15. SSDI

It took me 18 months, from the time I applied, to receive disability. After my second denial I hired an attorney. I've had four neck surgeries & one lower back surgery. I applied in March 2005. In Early December 2006 I, along with my disability lawyer, went in front of a disability judge in DC. One week later my case was approved. My first payment was $19,355 At the time I was 48. My lawyer told me this judge I was going in front of didn't like giving those under 50 disability. I should add this; at the time I first applied I had not yet had my back operated on. That would come in June 2005 (L5/S1). I still have a lot of back pain, but the nerve pain down my right leg is pretty much gone. I really feel for people who are having issues with vertebrae and haven't the monetary means to have anything done.