Hi, Folks. Texas Just Told Me I Don't Get a Leg.

[TexasLady]

As a lot of people know, I lost my leg in Feb of this year. I am chairing and crutching nicely. However, I lost my sit down job after being gone for so long in the hospital. We still have two minor kids, and make about 27000 a year thereabouts. My job didn't make much, but it helped. I am 46. Bad age apparently.

I applied for SSI and Medicaid. Nope, that butt sitting job was not going to allow it.(Im appealing) I applied for a leg to get me back to work, through DARS (Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services)here in Texas. After the 60 days had passed, and I heard nothing from them, I called on the 30th of September. I was told by my caseworker that I did not meet the criteria for help. Why? Because it was determined I didn't need a prosthetic because of the now dead job I had sitting on my ass. Yep, folks, My butt is now my new leg...I cried all day after that news. (I still haven't recieved written word about this)... I am at a loss.

I have just finished applying for a leg at limbs of love. They are a wonderful charity group for amputees..Crossing my fingers.

In all three cases, SSI, Medicaid, and DARS, I was told that I don't need any help because I can do sit down jobs. So I can't chase my new grandson, I can't garden, I can't go for walks to the lake like I did daily before this all happened, and I can't do a whole host of other things I'd like to do because I guess having a limb is a luxury in this country. Oh, and no I never had any insurance. We are both self employed, and it just wasn't feasable. Groceries and bills are all we can do. The hospital bill is about 200,000 last I looked. They can forget it. They misdiagnosed me for a month as it is, and probably could have saved my leg. I so understood what Grayson said...dont get sick, or if u do die quickly.

Thanks for letting me rant. I am ready to MOVE out of this state. I talk to other amps around the world, and a couple of the UK folks could not believe that I have been going through this. I can't believe this either. Lots of health care folks DO have compassion in this state, luckily. So at least I am not completely alone, here. Some days I sure feel like it.

Just wanted to let folks know that health reform is a REAL need for real folks like myself. I may not get all the ins and outs of the particulars in health reform, but I know it damn sure NEEDS some reforming!

[BlooInBloo]

1. :(((((( I'm sorry it came to that.

[Ilsa]

2. I'm surprised they didn't tell you that your only real function

in life is to work, work, work, and do more work, whether you have a leg or not. What cold assholes they are. It amazes me what people have to go through to get any help. The government wants anyone with a kind and generous heart to go broke.

I am really sorry about your situation. Can you tell me what part of Texas you are in? I might know someone...

[CaliforniaPeggy]

3. My dear TexasLady!

This is so wrong on so many levels. How can they do this to you?

I am aghast, and horrified, and pissed off!

Wishing I could do something for you...

Health reform is a must, especially for folks like yourself.

Hang in there...

:hug:


K&R

[TexasLady]

5. Thanks so so much

I need those hugs!
I am hoping that getting the word out there might help on some level.

[babylonsister]

4. I love you for posting this, and respect you for your

outlook. I am going through a divorce in TX, and it's not very lady friendly, never mind person-friendly.

Limbs of love sounds like a great resource from the name alone. I hope you find comfort.

I'm getting out of town, too, but for different reasons.

I really hope you can find someone soon who will recognize your need and help.

:hug:

[TexasLady]

7. I almost hate to admit this but..

I get jealous a little when I see some of the Iraq vets here at Ft Hood walking with prosthetics. I HATE why they lost their limbs, but also am mad at this system that they are walking and Im not. Hope that doesn't sound too rotten of me.

[Hekate]

13. Of course you feel that way. It is just not right. It's the system that is rotten, to the core.

:hug:

Hekate

[babylonsister]

25. That doesn't sound rotten at all. When I think of my problems

now, I will keep yours in mind. You have helped me, and I hope you get the help you deserve.

[alarimer]

31. That's socialized medicine for you.

Aren't you glad we are not subjected to the scourge of socialize medicine? :sarcasm:

I do not begrudge the vets the health care that they get; they did earn it.

BUT

Why are the rest of us less valuable? Most of us are useful to our communities. We work, pay taxes, vote. Yet Congress gets gold-plated health care (including a clinic right there in the building that costs members of Congress about $500 a year each). And Congress critters are about the most useless people on the planet.

[TexasLady]

33. damn skippy

you put it better than I could have...thanks for that. Its like, a couple of men in my extended family KNOW what I am going through and dealing with, and STILL go to these freakin' teabagger thingies. I don't even speak to them anymore. Apparently, I am useless fodder, so get the hell out of the way. Makes me sick.

[GTurck]

99. I'm in....

your backyard in Texas. I too live near Ft. Hood and see the wounded soldiers and their families who will get great treatment as long as they are in the military and once they are in VA but the rub is the time in between. No one; not you or them should be so diminished so that living is a stress and burden rather than joy and contentment. I wish I knew someone who could help you but alas I don't. All I can send is my heartfelt sympathy (not pity).
To me Texas, I was not born here but came to be close to our grandchildren, is a microcosm of the U.S. Everything wrong here is going on everywhere but not so concentrated or overt.
The public option is absolutely necessary and I think there should be a grandfather clause for the past 8 years of having to tolerate being in a corporation rather than a nation.

[TexasLady]

108. You said it well, neighbor

and thank you. :hug:

[offog]

89. Dear TexasLady:

Best wishes and best of luck to you. Thank you so much for posting your story.

I'm a Canadian who wants very much for Americans to get meaningful health care reform. My favorite quotation is "What we desire for ourselves, we wish for all." Your situation is horrifying. If something like that happened in Canada, it would be headline news in the mainstream media, not just the blogs.

And to babylonsister, I love the quote at the bottom of your post:
"A nation that does not take care of its veterans has got no business whatsoever making new ones." Stacy Bannerman

So if you oppose the war, you're disrespecting the troops, but it's okay to let so many veterans end up in rat-infested facilities, or homeless?!

[Hawkeye-X]

6. You're in my thoughts, TL

Move up to Colorado, and I'll get you started with one of the top Vocational Rehab counselors - and a old friend of the family.

And plenty of support for the disabled. Hell, here we have two different organizations that helps the disabled land decent jobs with decent pay/bennies.

One is Bayaud Industries, the other being Service Source (ourpeoplework.org - they MAY have something in your area)

They use VR to help locate qualified disabled people - my wife is one of them.

Hawkeye-X

[TexasLady]

9. Hi!

The funny thing is, DARS is right now putting my deaf daughter through college for free. I don't get it.
Colorado is one of my fave states, btw. BEE U TEE FUL!

[Hawkeye-X]

14. As they should - VR helped me through college

although I keep disappointing them by not graduating.

[Hekate]

8. God, I am so sorry, TexasLady. I am just so sorry.

I know I sound like a broken record by now, but please print out what you just wrote and send it to every Texas newspaper you can think of, your two senators and your representative. Oh yes, and the President. And your governor.

Your situation and that of so many others in this country is inexcusable.

Rant here any time you need to. :hug:

Hekate

[TexasLady]

11. My Sis said the same thing

I need to do that pronto.

[PSzymeczek]

186. Send it to Boehner, as well.

You're a regular American, right?

[niyad]

39. speaking of media--marvin zindler was a jerk, but very useful in situations like this

[TexasLady]

44. haha u gave me a laugh~!

Marrrvin Zzindlerrrr,,eyyyye witnesssss newzzz...haha...I used to live in Houston, so I grew up with watching him.

[barbtries]

123. second that

you might even want to call the local newspaper and see if they would like to do a feature. what you're going through is sure to be NEWS to a lot of people, and they need to know.

[busybl]

180. Is there a tv station with a troubleshooter type person?

[REP]

10. Have you applied for SS Disability (not Supplemental Income, SI)?

If not, DO IT. It may take some time, but do it. They can backdate your disability date so you qualify for Medicare immediately (been there, did it).

Also, see if you can find a malpractice lawyer to take a look at your case on contingency. If standard if care was not met in dx'ing you, you have a case.

[TexasLady]

15. I do have a lawyer for my actual messed up case,

but not for disability yet. I have an advocate for now. We will see how that all goes.

[gratuitous]

145. Unsolicited legal advice

By all means, get an attorney who specializes in SSI/SSD cases. I remember a case the office I worked at several years ago, in which a man with stump complications (delicate phrase, no?) was denied benefits because, in essence, SSA said he wouldn't be disabled if he had a proper-fitting prosthesis (yeah, and if my grandmother had wheels, she'd be a wagon). I think that one may have actually gone to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals before our office prevailed for him. It's a lengthy process with many delays, but the sooner you start, blah, blah, blah.

Good luck. Don't give up. Keep at it.

[tosh]

18. +1 on both points.

and :hug:

[tosh]

19. ((dupe))

:blush:

[REP]

22. Don't really need one for SSD (if it's free, though, go for it!!)

I wrote my own appeal ... even the government's witness ended up testifying for why I should receive SSD! Document everything - no matter how minor, it's all part of the big picture.

And good luck and best wishes!! Go for BLOOD!!!

[Hannah Bell]

32. I would look at the ramifications if you were counting on full SS at 65/67.

[REP]

59. The ramifications are that you collect now

Your "account" doesn't accrue any more unless you're able to work again, but if you're permanently disabled, you collect at your present level + COLAs -Medicare until you die or become independently wealthy. It doesn't affect the spouses future SS retirement. You can work while collecting; I believe $780/mo is allowed before SSD payments are docked.

There's a helpful govt website...

[BlooInBloo]

55. I have no idea what anything you said means, but others seem to, and it seems helpful...

Thanks. :)

[xchrom]

12. kick

[G_j]

16. so it's not about the quality of your life

but being able to to be some sort of clog in the system.
That says a lot.

[TexasLady]

21. yep

nail on the head.

[ThePantaloon.com]

17. Get a lawyer

If you were misdiagnosed and the leg could have been saved, please look into getting a lawyer. I will help you if you need to find one. I'm serious. This is why we need social justice AND health reform. My thoughts go out to you.

[TexasLady]

20. I hired one back in May

Its in the works, but it just takes a LONG time to happen..he told me to expect it to take eighteen months to two years before it is over.

[ThePantaloon.com]

57. Good. I hope you get justice. Best.

[Th1onein]

101. Now this is where TORT REFORM comes in......

Can't sue that hospital or doc for TOO MUCH, now, can she? After all, the right wing pushed through all those tort reforms. AND, Bush put in all those right wing judges.

[Feron]

23. I'm very sorry to hear that.

I wish you all the best. :hug:

I've been bugging my congress critters for reform. Hopefully we can make healthcare horror stories a thing of the past.

[xynthee]

24. Bless you, TexasLady!

Try not to give up hope! I have to believe things will get better. I just made a small donation to Limbs of Love on your behalf. I wish I could do more!!! :hug:

[TexasLady]

26. Really?

Oh that is AWESOME! I am just tickled that you did that!
I will post the link, as a matter of fact. Just so folks can check it out.
http://www.limbsoflove.com">Limbs of Love

[xynthee]

29. I would've given a lot more, but I just lost my job, unfortunately . . .

. . . but I plan to make LOL a part of my regular donations from here on out! As soon as I get another job, I'll make them a regular donee (is that a word)? Just try not to lose all hope! There are a few dicks on DU, but they're outnumbered 10,000 : 1! You have a big support system here, and things will get better.

[TexasLady]

30. I really hope you get hired soon

It is just awful not having any employment. I sure know about that! And you are right about support here, I found that out in April when we almost lost our home. Incredible folks here at DU. Incredible.

[xynthee]

35. You're so sweet!

But don't worry about me; I'll be fine! Thanks so much for your sympathy / empathy! I'll be thinking and worrying about you, but I think things are going to get better for all of us relatively soon. :grouphug:

[nadinbrzezinski]

27. it is a real need

and it makes me scream in anger

Hugs, and I wish I could do more, much more.

[Emit]

28. Contact the Client Assistance Program at DARS, if you haven't already

Maybe they can assist you with an appeal for VR services or get you in touch with other agencies that might be able to help. Make sure you let them know that you were never informed in writing, and tell them about the length of time that passed before you had to call your caseworker - I do not see it at their website, but in the State of NV, there is a specific period that VRCs have to determine an applicant's eligibility:

CAP info here:
http://www.dars.state.tx.us/drs/cap.shtml

More info on the VR process here if you haven't already read it: http://www.dars.state.tx.us/drs/VRguide_english.htm

And continue your appeals with SSI/Medicaid.

I am so sorry to hear this, TexasLady. Good luck.

[csziggy]

34. Here are some groups to try

Barr Foundation - http://www.oandp.com/resources/organizations/barr/

Limbs 4 Life - http://www.limbsforlife.org/

Amputee Coalition of America - http://www.amputee-coalition.org/

Jaipurfoot - http://www.jaipurfoot.org/

[TexasLady]

36. thank you!

I knew about three of these, but not the last one. I do so appreciate it. Limbs for Life needs a LOT of info, that I just can't gather quickly(Like specifics pics, and a form needed from a prosthetist, yet I don't have one!)..that's why I opted for limbsoflove first. I will just keep plugging away.

[csziggy]

79. The last seems to concentrate on low cost limbs for people in other countries

But if you can get them to work with you, you may be able to get a low cost limb that would function.

I just cannot understand a system that thinks you should live with one leg when they could provide one. We need health care reform and need it NOW.

Good luck!

[tblue]

37. When Texas secedes, I want you here with the rest of us!

Oh sweetie, what kinda effed up government would turn it's back on someone like you? The money, the resources are here, and if they're not used to ease human suffering, what the hell are they for? My mom nearly lost her leg while she was pregnant with me. Bone cancer. She was in the hospital for nine months, six of them while she was pregnant. And I was sent home three months before she was. My dad was in the Army so she was fully covered. But I don't know what we would've done if we hadn't had medical coverage. I probably would not have been born. I have no money right now but I will give something to Limbs as soon as I am able to. A big big hug to you and all my best wishes.....p.s., I'd consider moving to Canada or France if I were you and had any way of doing it. I know that's farfetched, but just thought I'd bring it up.

:hug:

[TexasLady]

51. aw tblue, im glad it all worked out

my friend up the street from me had bone cancer and just had her leg amputated. I havent heard if she will be facing the same problems as me or not on the prosthesis..what are the chances of two amps on the same small street? It just goes to show that we ALL can face these illnesses when we least expect them. Hugs right back atcha! :hug:

[tblue]

124. Incredible.

My mom had her knee removed and the leg is several inches shorter, but she can walk and drive. One doctor intervened, or it would have been amputated. We never once had to worry about medical care (dad in the Army) but it would have been a disaster if we did. My family now pays $25K a year for Blue Shield with a huge deductible. We applied for Blue Cross with an even bigger deductible but were turned down. Preexisting conditions, treated with meds that are available as generics. That's nothing compared to what you've gone through, but none of it is fair or makes any sense for a modern civil society. Who are we, really, as a people? You are in my thoughts.

[niyad]

38. dear texas lady, sending hugs and prayers your way--and things we won't mention for the thugs

in the agencies. may they receive everything they deserve.

I wish I could do something to help, just know that thoughts and prayers are with you always.

and if there is something the folks here at DU--the most loving and caring people I have ever encountered, can do, please let us know.

[Historic NY]

40. Do you have a Social Security Lawyer...if not get one...& don't give up.

[Historic NY]

41. Do you have a SS lawyer if not get one & don't give up...

It took me 4 yrs overturned 2 decisions on appeals the SS Judge finally relented. I was 48 when it started they don't like giving you it then.

[TexasLady]

42. I have an advocate for now

but I may need to look into a lawyer for that too. I don't plan on ever giving up on the appeals. Ever. This is the most assinine stupid system probably in the world.

[Historic NY]

50. its doesn't cost you anything to have one..they get paid a flat fee.

[happyslug]

125. No, the attorney is limited to 25% of arrears i.e. what is own to you win you win

It is NOT a fixed fee, varies on how much you are entitled to per month, but limited to 25% of arrears. Now, it most cases it is 25% but technically if the attorney did NOT do enough work to justify the fee, Social Security has to right to reduce the amount (Rarely does, most attorneys can show the time put on the case).

Now Legal Aid can represent you in Social Security Cases, in those cases Legal Aid can NOT charge you a fee, but you have to meet their eligibility guidelines (Call them and apply, the worse they can do is say no).

[akbacchus_BC]

43. Dear TexasLady, sorry to hear what you are going through! Is there

anything we can do to help you?

Please get back to me

Regards

[TexasLady]

45. I am a believer in good thoughts!

Help me think positive thoughts on all this!

[akbacchus_BC]

46. Dear TexasLady, glad to hear back from you and I too am a believer

in my fellow human beings. Is there anything we can do to help you? If so, just ask, am ready and willing.

Stay good

[teacher gal]

47. I wish you the best

Hope limbs of love comes through for you.

[TexasLady]

48. thank you teacher gal

MEEEE too!

[ClayZ]

49. Hoping you get the best new leg a person

could ever get.

Blessings to you!


K and R

[TexasLady]

54. me too!

thanks so much!

[Withywindle]

52. Oh no, that's terrible.

:hug:

These are NOT decisions bean counters and corporate accountants should be making. What next? "Sorry about your brain tumor, but we've determined that since your last job was at McDonald's, you should be able to be a good little corporate cog without a brain just fine."


:cry:

It's just so wrong. You deserve so much better.

[TexasLady]

53. thanks I needed that

the system is surely broke, and it SURELY needs fixin.

[Withywindle]

56. Glad to able to help in some small way.

What makes me so ENRAGED about how fucked-up our system is the way it beats people down emotionally as well as physically. Convinces people it was somehow their fault. If they'd just filed that one piece of paperwork 5 years ago, if they'd just fended off the layoff 6 months longer, if they were just a little bit more savvy, a little bit richer...and it never is. The prospect of help is dangled in front of us like a carrot, and yet we'll never be allowed to reach it.

And so many good people don't fight as hard as they should because they just don't have the faith or the energy anymore.

Fuck that. Please fight. Please reach out to everyone you can and ask them to help you fight.

[TexasLady]

65. I promise, I will.

:hug:

[AuntPatsy]

58. I am honestly sorry that you are having so much problems getting the help you need...

people are shocked when I tell them that my daughter got Medicaid and disability so easily at twenty four years of age...it was perhaps five weeks after she applied..my sister had me do it considering her illness and her age..well..five weeks she got a check and her care of health care..not that I am complaining because her father and I won't be around for ever but there are folks out there that need help now..and I have heard so many horror stories of how long people have to wait..

it makes me sick when I hear someone against giving aid to those that need it..frankly my husband believes himself to be one of those...fauxhounds...I call him to be nice..

He simply does not understand that the help she really needs..she can never get simply because it would cost at least thirty thousand dollars a month...I have already checked around...her state assistance obviously covers nothing more than keeping her drugged up..so much so that my husband and now myself feel like they will kill her sooner than later..she is twenty seven..

I do blame this country for the pathetic amount of empathy they show to those honestly in need...he like those people simply do not understand anything of real value about what certain people need to become or maintain some amount of good health as well as somewhat comfortable living.


don't be so quick to move..believe it or not..many programs designed to help people were cut drastically by bush and his thugs..with the money gone..they have had to close many facilities or give less care to people in need making it more difficult for those seeking help...sometimes I think even those getting to decide who gets what and when have no clue what to do since they are more than likely told to somehow keep the minimum down on what goes out..hence waiting weeks and or years for aid or as in your case..denying help all together..

I not only hate war for the horrific waste of innocent lives and the horrors that even those fighting must face but because when I think of how much money is wasted on allowing killing to be viewed as so necessary I want to scream at the ignorance..

I absolutely come out of my skin with rage when if I happen to see idiots with posters against abortion...it is all I can do to restrain myself at the hypocrisy of it all.


Sure..waste time on such bullshit worrying about a live not yet born but fuck the ones already here..

Honestly they make me sick...I have yelled at some about perhaps using there time to aid those already here but they are so beyond hope and so hypnotized by the church leaders that if they do not stand there like idiots on street corners humiliating women they will go to hell..well if you ask me..if there is a hell...then those actions will surely be cause for them to at least visit it...how can anyone possibly believe such actions to hold any merit at all in intimidating others is beyond me...

I hope that this new place you found will help you I really do...I just cannot imagine not being able to chase after my grandchildren..

..sorry for my long post..it is late and I am just angry and frustrated at the stupidity of our government and some of our citizens and then I read your suffering and how hard it is for you to find help...it drives me nuts and angers me to no end..

the ignorant gullibility that shines so bright from the religious side and the same from those who with a little comfort in their present lives feel they have room to protest the government against helping its own citizens because they are just selfish assholes..they all make me sick..

My husband and I can not talk politics..it gets heated and ugly...earlier I could not believe what he said..something idiotic like go hang out with your black friend Pelosi??? Oh okay...was not informed of her race..faux must have told him..

God he watches too much faux..why I just don't understand it..I guess like the tea baggers and birthers whether they admit it or not..it all comes down to hidden racism and bigotry...

.fear is contagious and the repugs and the religious nuts push that fear constantly and idiots like my husband believe them.....

it has got to stop..I want to say to him so badly..your daughter is going to die...and why? because your bullshit love for the reaganoites of this world is allowing her to die..wishing her to die..hoping she will die before she costs them too much money..if not for us..she would be on the streets and more than likely already dead..what she gets from the state would barely be enough to eat for one week..not to live..anything..god those pretentious ignorant people that dare to fight against real health care in this country for all sicken me..

I can't help it..I wish karma would visit them and soon...sorry just ranting too..

[TexasLady]

61. You go on and rant AuntPatsy

:hug:

[Corey_Baker08]

60. I Hope Limbs of Love Come Through For You- I Wish You The Best!!!

:hi:

[roguevalley]

62. I hug you, honey. My sissy lost a leg. What a tough thing and now

this. Take care and know you are loved.

[Artie Bucco]

63. But!!!???

I just saw a commercial where John Cornyn said he was fighting for Medicare and cheaper health care. Lousy douchebag.

[TexasLady]

67. Yea.

and him and ol Carter can kiss my Texas AZZ.

[TexasLady]

64. If it wasn't for my own sis

I don't know what I would do. She was by my side the whole time. She kept her mouth shut about how my foot looked until about a month later...she said my big toe looked like a brazilian nut, and I cant eat one now to this day, lol. Know that your own sis appreciates your empathy and support!

[GCP]

66. Unbelievable

Texas really is another country, isn't it.
What total ass-holery.

[TexasLady]

71. Aint it tho?

And isn't Texas either last or next to last when it comes to health care? The Free Clinic in our area has lines that are nice and long on the mornings they are open on Tues and Thurs, and people start the lines at three or four am to be sure they get in. It opens at 7:30 am and it is first come first serve. I know, I used to get in those lines for my high BP, because a to see a doctor, a new patient without insurance starts off at about $180 to see the doc that prescribes the meds. Unreal.

[buzzycrumbhunger]

68. I'm afraid FL isn't any better

My son lost a leg 9 years ago and has been turned down repeatedly for assistance by SSI and Voc Rehab, who supposedly helps "everyone" get limbs. Apparently, has handicaps go, one limb won't cut it. You lazy bastids need to quit whining or else give up everything and beg on a street corner before they'll consider you worthy. Meanwhile, his original leg no longer stays on and he's either hopping (with amazing grace, I might add) or with his rocket launchers (forearm crutches), both of which piss him off because then people treat him like he has something wrong. He doesn't consider himself disabled, doesn't want money or an endless handout. He just wants a fucking leg and doesn't have the insurance or a spare 10K lying around to buy one. *sigh*

Here's hoping you and he and all the rest of us get some reform before it's too late. Whatever good empathy does you, you have mine. :hug:

[TexasLady]

74. Oh NO!!

That makes me friggin SICK. A leg should NOT be a luxury! You and your son have my empathy as well!!!

Has he ever seen this guy? He is so inspirational! Its called..

How to turn your limp into a pimp walk by Josh Sundquist
I hope everyone sees this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0-5BJFnJvY&feature=player_embedded

[buzzycrumbhunger]

78. LOL--I've never seen him before

Fun one to pass on. (I told you those were rocket launchers!) My son favors the pirate shtick, and has always had a great sense of humor about his leg. Don't think he ever felt sorry for himself because he came so close to dying (necrotizing strep infection and one big, bad summer) and figured as a computer geek, it was a part he could spare, if it meant he got to live. Besides, he also learned at rehab that there are people in way worse shape than he is.

Glad to see you can find the humor, as well. Here's hoping you don't have to be "good sports" for much longer, though. Damn.

[a la izquierda]

69. Oh my gosh, TXLady, I'm so sorry...

I remember your story, and remember jawing back and forth about Oklahoma.
I'm so, so sorry for you. I know that doesn't help get you a leg.

[Mimosa]

70. TexasLady, my heart goes out to you

Dear lady, is there anything we can do besides donating to Limbs of Love? Can you get some publicity through a local paper or TV station to embarrass the decision makers into doing the right thing?

Wht entity made the decision that you couldn't have a prosthetic? Was it state run Medicaid? Worker's Comp?

It seems to me that even if we got the single payer we want we still might have to fight those who make decisions which affect our lives.

{{{{{{HUGS and hope for a change}}}}}}}

I dedicate this, my 1000th post, to the sweet real Texas Lady. I love your 'voice.'

[TexasLady]

75. Congrats on that big one thousand!!!!

DARS made this decision about my leg. Im just sick of the waiting....I have learned to be more patient, Im just not real GOOD at it, lol.
thanks for the hugs, and I will be doing some writing to some congress critters sometime this morning, with Im sure a canned response.

[Mimosa]

76. Thank you. You've been on my buddy list a LONG TIME

I didn't know much about you, Texas Lady. I admired your good sense and kindness. You are one of the folks who makes DU a nice place to visit.

{{{{HUGS and good vibes}}}}}

[Starry Messenger]

72. ((hug))

What a nightmare. It's as bad or worse as any of the stories MM highlighted in "Sicko". I hope for your leg. Perhaps when your health permits, you should bring more national attention to this horror show you've been through. People need to know how low it can go. :(

[Trailrider1951]

73. Texas Lady, these people may be able to help you:

Lone Star Circle of Care in Central Texas:

http://www.lscctx.org/

They helped a man I know get care after he suffered a heart attack, underwent bypass surgery, and then developed a bacterial infection that nearly killed him. They also helped with the bills. Please contact them and let them know you need help. Where are you? I'm in a little town near Georgetown. Good luck, and my prayers are with you and your family.

Sandy:hug:

[Soylent Brice]

77. K&R

good luck with your appeal, and please let us know whether the limbs of love helps you out.

stay strong. we're not giving up on HC. it will happen.

[DaveinJapan]

80. K&R...I wish you the best of luck in finding some help! nt

[undeterred]

81. I am so sorry you're being treated this way

and I hope that some assistance comes through. :hug:

Edit: Sometimes insurance doesn't like to cover missing arms either. I knew someone whose daughter was born without an arm. When the time came they got a prosthetic arm for her - knowing they would need a series of larger prosthetics for her as she grew up. Their insurance company said that because she was born without the arm, it was a pre-existing condition, and they would not pay for any prosthetics for her.

[Vinca]

82. Maybe you should email Eric Cantor. I'm sure he'd help.

:sarcasm: I wish I was rich so I could make your problem go away. Any chance you can sue over the misdiagnosis that caused the loss of the leg or has the Texas tort reform removed that option?

[TexasLady]

83. Its in the works

I cant say a whole lot about it, but I hired a lawyer in May. It just takes a really long time, and Texas is probably the worst place to have to fight this.
And thank you for your kind thoughts. I appreciate that.

[swilton]

84. I feel your pain -

Working on health care (and peace) for our grandkids!:fistbump: :grouphug:
1

[raccoon]

85. Sorry to hear that, Texaslady.

:hug:

I feel your pain. I have a disability caused by work and I got jackshit in the way of help for it.

[Iwillnevergiveup]

86. Texas Lady

I am amazed at how together you are considering the physical and psychological trauma you've been through. Our lousy health (NO) care system has not diminished your determination, your optimism or your great sense of humor. Am in total agreement with those who suggest publicity of your situation may be the key to a SPEEDY resolution. Could you handle "Countdown" or Rachel??? That young lady who was shot in the health club probably has a job by now based on her compelling interview on Rachel last week.

THANK YOU for checking back in with us - you have a lot of deserved support here.

:hug:

[TexasLady]

87. I can be a bit shy in those situations

My stomach would be in complete knots! And you are sure right, the support of folks here has been beyond phenomenal. :hug:

[offog]

98. I think it would be cool if you went on TV.

People need to know that this stuff is happening, TexasLady.

I posted something a little earlier in this thread. One thing I said was that if something like your situation happened in Canada, it would be headline news in the mainstream media, not just in the blogs.

I've been reading waaay too many stories like yours on line, and even just in this thread. The American system is really scary. I don't what is up with that. I think maybe it's part of that whole right-wing, social-Darwinist, law-of-the-jungle philosophy that is so deeply entrenched in American culture. There seems to be an attitude that if you can't make it on your own, even if it's not your fault, you don't deserve to survive.

And believe me, conservatives do not have a good attitude towards people with disabilities, even in Canada. Some years back, I read a magazine article about a meeting that took place in a Canadian city; I think it was Winnipeg. Some advocates for people with disabilities were meeting with a group of business people to discuss ways to make employment more accessible. The response of the business people was to look sheepish and basically say that if you can't compete in today's job market, that's your problem.

[TexasLady]

110. Isn't it just sad?

Im not understanding the whole hatred against the disabled thing either. In fact, it seems to be becoming popular among these filth to 'blame the victim' lately, or maybe it is just more 'out there'. If my family COULD help more, they would, but they are barely squeaking by themselves.

That's why, when I come here with a bit of a complaint about this STUPID system and the IDIOTS that dont want reform, I know I can count on so many here to bring me back out of the doldrums.

[InfiniteThoughts]

88. a sad day indeed ...

i wouldn't want even my mortal enemies to suffer your plight. Third world countries have better health care systems than US and that is the sad truth.

[Odin2005]

90. Those bastards!

:grr:

Here in MN us disabled folks get complete medical coverage through the state. I always forget it's not the same elsewhere. :(

[TexasLady]

113. When people ask where I am from

I usually just say Hell.

[ljm2002]

91. About that hospital bill...

...if, as you say, they misdiagnosed you and could have saved your leg, then you have a malpractice suit. I hope you are pursuing that.

In the meantime, keep your chin up and keep looking, I'm sure you will find an organization who can help you with the prosthetic limb.

So sorry you are having to deal with this!

[TexasLady]

105. Yes as I wrote higher up

I do have a lawyer...I just can't talk about it much. I just hope he is as good as I hear he is. It's tough to fight for these things in Texas...I was misdiagnosed over four times,(told me it was sciatica each time) in the ER and also at my doc's, where I paid cold hard cash for each visit. They in fact turned me away, and sent me BACK to the ER, the final visit of the ER, when I finally got surgery..lots of surgeries in fact..I initially went in with pain and fatigue in my calf, that worsened, and a numb foot. No one thought to send me to see if indeed it may be circulatory. None of the docs wanted to go against the initial doc's diagnosis, I guess.

So, here I am....
edited for as usual typos

[valerief]

92. I hope you get that new leg and when you do, you stick your new foot up the right

asses!

The robber barons of this country make me so :mad:

[TexasLady]

107. I intend to

I wouldnt wish this on even them, though, except that perhaps it would make them more compassiona......nah, never mind. never happen

[cali]

93. What's happening to you makes me so fucking angry

Is there anything that we can do? Have you contacted your local newspaper? I don't know. Maybe that sounds stupid.

[renate]

94. that is so cold and inhumane

I'm so sorry... my gosh, how you must be feeling--hurt and frustrated and incredibly traumatized after an experience like losing your leg and now this.

:hug:

[derby378]

95. Ginny and I are so sorry, TexasLady...

:hug:

[TexasLady]

103. thanks yall

:hug: right back at yall

[Barack_America]

96. If you really feel you were misdiagnosed and it cost you your leg...

...you should speak with an attorney. If nothing else to settle and get that $200,000 officially off the books.

[TexasLady]

106. I have one

It will be a really long time before I know anything, though...

[Barack_America]

109. That's great. I'm really sorry for everything you've been through.

Was it a circulation issue? If so, even more reason that you need to be up and moving around on a new leg. It's horrifying that Texas is boiling this down to a productivity issue. Health and welfare truly mean nothing to them, that much is obvious.

[TexasLady]

111. Arterial Thrombosis was the eventual diagnosis

Luckily, I had a doc swing by that particular ER visit, my fourth in a month, to tell everyone to get my behind to an MRI, FAST. He saved my life. Five giant clots in my artery in my thigh...

[Barack_America]

114. And I imagine that it is your doctor's orders to be up and moving...

...considering it appears you have a clotting disorder. So Texas is essentially fighting you on your doctor's orders.

That's just special. But we currently have no middleman between doctors and patients in our health care system. Or so they say.

I'm so angry on your behalf (though it sounds like you're doing just fine in the righteous anger category...keep it up).

:hug:

[Deep13]

97. I wish I could say I am shocked...

...but this crap is just business as usualy here. You do realize, I hope that health care reform will mean some executives will not be alble to upgrade to plasma TVs in their third floor bathrooms. Do you really want that on your conscience? :sarcasm:

Just out of curiosity, how much does something like that cost?

[TexasLady]

102. It depends

I read and hear that it can be anywhere from ten to fifty grand. Because I am a LAK, left above knee, I will need the higher end model. At this point, I could go for a pegleg! It's almost Halloween, so......

[Deep13]

112. Damn! Everything about our "system" is overpriced.

:(

[dgibby]

100. I'm so sorry.

This really bites. If you haven't done so, please forward this to Big Ed Schultz, or if you want, I can do it for you. I can also send it to Keith and Rachel, but won't unless you give me permission. Best of luck.

[TexasLady]

104. sure

I dont mind. Thanks for the luck!! :hi:

[myrna minx]

115. (((Texas Lady)))

:hug:

[sandnsea]

116. Just a big ol hug

And people like you are the reason I say that even subsidized private insuurance is an improvement because you would have had a plan if it only cost $50-$100 per month. I hope you find a solution soon! :hug:

[polly7]

117. All my best to you Texas Lady, I'm so sorry you've been put

through this. Crossing my fingers things work out for you.:hug:

[joeybee12]

118. I'm very sorry to hear this. As much as I am loathe to recommend getting a lawyer....

...it might help in your case...having someone who is familiar with the intricacies of this bureacracy you're up against and who won't take no for an answer. If not a lawyer, is there some sort of non-profit advocacy group? Good luck.

[nvme]

119. a Hug to you

I will pray for ya.

[hamsterjill]

120. As a fellow Texan, I am ashamed.

Please know that there are those of us out here (many of us!) who are working hard to change the makeup of the Texas political scene.

I am so sorry this has happened to you.

[DFW]

126. Second that!

You're not in the Dallas area, by any chance?

[hamsterjill]

131. San Antonio here.

Cornyn territory...and I'm trying to change that!

[DFW]

140. Ah, yes, our male embarrassment in the U.S. Senate

The female embarrassment is about to run for governor. I don't want her as governor, but I want Rick Perry even less.

[hamsterjill]

141. Absolute ditto here!

So help me, it feels like Perry has been governor since I was about six!!! LOL (And I'm old).

We need some new blood!

[kestrel91316]

121. This is why the USA is The Greatest Nation On Earth (TM)!!!1!!11!!

[Vidar]

122. K&R

[sonias]

127. TexasLady - Thank you for the update

I hope that some of the suggestions on this thread will prove useful. You keep working towards that goal. They expect you to give up but don't you do it. You keep fighting for your quality of life. You deserve a limb - it is not a luxury. It is a necessity for a good quality of life.

Your story is a real human life story. I know the people that represent us in Texas suck, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't tell your story. Writing about it will help. Just like you told your story here and many offered suggestions that might help. You keep being the squeaky wheel. That's the only way that people who can help will know you need help. Don't take no for an answer. If there is an appeal process at DARS get back in there. Your situation has changed since you applied. Maybe not having that job may make a difference now. You need that leg so you are more employable in a wider range of jobs.

Tell your story in as many places that you can, including your local newspaper. Maybe a local writer that's supportive might pick up on your story.

http://www.guaranteedhealthcare.org/

Organizing for Healthcare
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/healthcarestory

Consumers Union
http://www.prescriptionforchange.org/share_your_story.html

Hang in there TexasLady. Do not give up. You have to fight for yourself because you are worth it.

:hug:

Sonia

[TexasLady]

137. Aww sonias, how are you!!

Thank you for the links. I often get tired of fighting, but I will keep getting back up, finding my balance, and start punching back.

:hug:

[happyslug]

128. A word about your Social Security Disability Claim

The test for Disability is the same for Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The difference is Social Security Disability comes out of Social Security Taxes, SSI comes out of "General Revenues" but the Social Security Administration (SSA) runs both programs.

As I said above, the test for Social Security Disability and SSI is the same, "Can you do work that exists in substantial numbers in the National Economy?" If the answer is yes, you are NOT eligible for either program, if the answer is NO, then you are "disabled" for both programs (Once you are determined to be "disabled" then and only then will SSA determine if you are eligible for Social Security Disability and/or SSI).

Now, a Vocational Expert (VE) should be at the hearing who will answer questions from you (or your advocate/Attorney) AND the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) as to what jobs a person with your restrictions can or can not do. The questioning generally starts out at "Given the claimant's age, education and work experience what jobs can such a person do?" The VE will respond with a list of Jobs (Notice no restrictions as to what you can do, so all jobs are possible). Next the ALJ will add restrictions, based on the Medical Record and maybe your testimony, till the VE says such a person can NOT do any work that exists in Substantial Numbers in the National Economy (IF the ALJ does not get to that level, your advocate/Attorney should). Once the VE has testified it is up to the ALJ to decide what are your restrictions and then apply what the VE said where the jobs such a person can do (including that there no jobs).

Now, the VE is someone with some expertise in Job placement AND training (Most have Doctorates in a field related to occupational rehabilitation). The key issue fall into two areas, first your age, and how can you get around.

If you are over age 50, unless it is a job you did in the last 15 years (and it sounds like it is) you are disabled for, except for people who did a sedentary job in the previous 15 years, Sedentary jobs are NOT considered for people over age 50 (A sedentary job is a Job that requires you to be on your feet no more then two hours a day and lift no more then 10 pounds, if you can do either you can do "Light Work" in addition to "Sedentary work").

Now, almost all Sedentary jobs require some movement on your part, generally up to an hour per day (NOT an hour at a time, an hour on your feet at various times during the day). If your movement is restricted the number of Sedentary jobs you do is limited (and the VE will testified so). Another factor is how much will you be off task? Most sedentary and light jobs require you to be on task 2 hours then take a 15 minute break, on task for 2 hours, then take a 30 minute lunch break, on task for two hours, then take a 15 minute break then on task for 2 more hours then go home. If you can NOT be on task those time periods OR need additional breaks that exceed 10% per hour (About six minutes) then the VE will say there are no jobs in the National economy in substantial numbers such a person can perform.

Notice the issue is "can you be on task for eight hours with three scheduled breaks"? If the answer is NO do to problems with your leg then you are disabled. If you have to get away from your job location for more then 6 minutes per hour do to problems with your leg, the VE will said such a person can NOT do any jobs that exists in Substantial Numbers.

Now, I have to ask an important question, how does your leg prevent you from doing your previous job? If the job (and we are looking at that TYPE of Job NOT your exact job you did) can no longer be perform by you for any reason (and again I mention it is the TYPE of job, that the job no longer exists does NOT matter) then it is no longer a type of job you can perform and thus NOT grounds to deny you Disability. If, on the other hand, it is a type of job you CAN perform, then you are NOT disabled.

Notice, age is a factor. Sedentary jobs are NOT a factor for people over age 10 UNLESS it is a job that person has performed in the last 15 years OR provided SKILLS that can be transferred to another Sedentary jobs (Classic case is a Mechanic with a bad back, if a skilled mechanic his skills can be transferred from heavy equipment to small engines which is a Light to Sedentary jobs, but please note a "Mechanic's helper" has few skills to transfer for he or she did NOT learn the skills of a mechanic just what to do when told by a Mechanic, as such a "Mechanic Helper" has little, if any transferable skills). I bring up the issue of Transferable skills is case you have any. Please note I am talking of SKILLS not TRAITS. A Skill is something you learn, like typing. A trait is something you do automatically like being nice to customers. Telling customers where something is located in the Store etc. SSA is concerned about transferable SKILLS not Traits and Skills is based on training, education and on the Job Training, but training.

Just some comments on what to look forward to and WHAT SSA is looking at when it said you were NOT disabled. The issue is NOT if you have a disability, but does that disability prevent you from doing work that exists in Substantial Numbers in the National Economy? Remember the test is NOT that you are disabled, but HOW does the disability affect your ability to do work.

Please go to the Disability section of DU for more information on this subject:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=250

SSA Disability and the process are discussed in some details at the following posts:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=250&topic_id=353&mesg_id=376

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=250&topic_id=3677&mesg_id=3682

[TexasLady]

134. My advocate explained this similiarly

(and that explanation was just as SCARY and hard to understand!)and in a twisted, and dark humored way, told me that hey, I could easily get worse, so I might as well keep appealing and keep it going until I am. I don't think they were really joking all that much. I wish it wasn't so connected to the Medicaid, I would have loved to have gotten it. Still don't get why I can't get that. Im stuck to the side of the coumadin clinic for the rest of my days now. So far, they have't even mentioned or sent me a bill, they are just trying to keep my numbers at a safe level.

Almost isn't worth it, is it. I wanna work, I was mostly pissed about DARS and the leg. It was the proverbial straw, so to speak. As far as the state goes, anyway.

I need to go to IHOP and be a national spokesmodel, like the Progressive gal. Only Im not quite that young, lol. Bet it pays well!

[happyslug]

139. Are you on coumadin ?

If you are, are you pre-menopausal (i.e. you still having "periods")? If yes and do to your condition you have to be in bed during your period (i.e. 2-3 days per month?). If the answer is yes, be sure you bring that up in the hearing for the Vocational Expert will testify that if you have to miss more then 2 days of work in a month you are unemployable. Employers expect workers to miss no more then, on average, missing one day per month to sickness is acceptable, missing two is marginal, missing three clearly makes you unemployable. Make sure your Doctor reports the use of Coumadin and its side affect of increase blood flow.

Please note if your medical care requires you to miss the above level of work (i.e. three or more days, often 2 or more days per month) then the VE will say they are no employers who will keep you on the job, i.e. you are unemployable. If you have medical records to back up that level of medical care, then the ALJ MUST rule you disabled.

[TexasLady]

173. yes to all

wow, this is unreal. The things I am learning!

[happyslug]

187. You will probably win, if you can document the need to be off work 3 days a month

This is the type of case that has to go to an ALJ hearing, where the VE will testify that a person that has to miss three days of work a month is unemployable. The only issue then is convincing the ALJ that is the case. Your testimony should be enough, but to be on the safe side make sure your doctor report HOW the Coumadin is affecting you. Now make sure the Doctor is NOT repeating what you tell him or her, but that he or she is saying the Coumadin will cause this problem (Either that you will have to stay in bed 3-4 days a month during your period OR that you have to go down to their office 3-4 days a month).

Please note, the above restrictions MUST be reported to be expected to last one year or longer, if it is expected to last less then a year, it is NOT a factor. I once had two men in complete body casts, one was out of his cast only after 11 months, he was ruled NOT disabled for after the cast was removed he could work. The other had his hearing before the cast was removed and the Doctor told SSA that it was expected to last one year or longer, he won his SS even through his case was also removed after 11 months. The key was NOT how long the disability lasted but how long was it EXPECTED to last. Now after the Cast was removed he lost his SS disability but while in the cast he received his SS disability. Remember the problem has to be expected to last more then a year, if it is expected to last more then a year, then and only then is it a disability for Social Security Purposes.

I bring up Coumadin for one of the first cases I took to SSA my client had a heart condition and was on Coumadin and still had periods. That was enough for the ALJ to rule her disabled for three days in bed meant three days off work and the VE testified that missing three days for any reason made a person unemployable. The real problem is such cases require the hearing to be held and the client to say what her limitation are, including having to stay in bed for three days a month, and then the VE saying that made her Unemployable before the ALJ could rule her disabled. Prior to the VE testimony the ALJ had no record of my client that she could not work with her physical restrictions, once she said she was in bed and the VE said that made her um-employable the ALJ had enough evidence to rule in her favor. You just have to wait for the hearing. Hopefully you have less of a wait then my clients, my local office is a year between the appeal for an ALJ Hearing and the Actual ALJ Hearing. Just a comment on the time, we are in a recession and people apply for SS when they can not find another job. These all add to the delay in getting a hearing, all I can tell you is wait for the hearing.

[defendandprotect]

129. Call Sen. Bernie Sanders office . . . he's interested in these cases . . .

and obviously many of us are hoping that we can all get moving on

Medicare for All -- Everyone in, No one Out --

and reign in this despicable health care so many receive!

So sorry you are going thru all of this and hope that things improve quickly!

[Loki]

130. Found another web site that might help

looks like they too have an application form on their site

http://www.limbsforlife.org/index.php?id=120

Best of luck to you and keep us posted

another Texas Lady
Lee

[Joe Fields]

132. You've got to have a heart to give something in return.

Evidently, there seem to be no shortage of state workers without hearts.

God bless you. Keep on fighting and please don't give up, until you win this fight.

[Uncle Joe]

133. Thanks for sharing, TexasLady.

You will get a leg, I'm just not sure from where, but things are going to change, keep the faith.:hug:

[TexasLady]

136. Thanks Uncle Joe

I have to keep believing that too. :hug:

[juno jones]

135. Keep fighting.

After being thru the system a couple of times myself (tho not in TX, I fled that place after 6 months, sorry.) you have to be persistent. If they say 2 months, call the damn worker every week and ask for progress. You don't say above, but are you getting, FS, etc? from what I hear they will give them if you have a case pending. Appeal, keep appealing and DOG THEM! The squeaky wheel gets oil in this system. Get your docs in order and challenge them to produce theirs. A lawyer is icing on the cake, they should be coughing up for him. Make sure he is persistent, dog him too! he should not have let this slip for 2 months, he should have been advocating on your behalf frequently.

Keep at em, I wish you well. Good luck with Limbs of Love, :hug:

[CreekDog]

138. This is a CRIME

:grr: :rant:

The healthcare system is so broken that people like you don't get what they NEED.

[katandmoon]

142. THAT TOTALLY FUCKING SUCKS! So wrong, wrong, wrong! I know my outrage doesn't do

A thing to help you right now, I just wish it did, but boy am I outraged on your behalf...

[winyanstaz]

143. Dear Texas lady.....

Please, don't move out of the state...get a lawyer!
Don't give up if the first 15 to 20 lawyers don't call you back or take your case.
Only get one that will take you case on a contingency basis.
They are out there and if you were mis-diagnosed for a month...you deserve some legal help.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and I just want to tell you to NOT give up. It is always darkest before the Dawn.
You may need to make some big noise before you get help but I think you can do it.
What about your local paper..wont they do an article on you? At least have someone call them and find out. It might shame the system into doing something for you.
Take care and anytime you need to vent...:) we are here for you.

[onestepforward]

144. I'm so sorry.

If I won the lottery today, you'd have a new leg tomorrow. I wish I could help you.
:hug:

[BrklynLiberal]

146. Oh TexasLady..It sure seems that there is no justice....I am at a loss to properly

express my shock and sadness at your situation.
I hope things turn around very soon..and pls keep us posted.
I am sending you lots of positive energy and white light and hope they will attract
all good things to you.
:grouphug:

[PatSeg]

147. In addition to all the advice you've received,

I would definitely write your congress-critter and senator, even if they are republicans. Many people have found resolution through their representatives and even you don't, they need constant reminders of the horrors of our health care system.

Good luck to you and keep us updated on your situation!

[pansypoo53219]

148. and the rite says amerika is the best.

i'd like to know what planet they live on.

[malaise]

149. This is too sad.

I think this should be sent to both Rachel and KO. Time for some public action.

[whathappened]

150. this sucks big time

i no this has been said , but i'm going to say it again , u should have the right to a leg weather u can afford it or not , this is america and we should be taking care of our own back yard , my wife and i are both disabled , not enought money to buy into the supplemental for medicare , so we have to pay our 20 percent , i was getting my part d paid for until this year , all of a sudden i make over the limit for help with part d , don't no how that happened , we make the same as always , some bean counter in dc decided we make to much , wife is just signing up for her part d , and got a call from ss disability office , she makes to much , it seems u have to count your gross amount before they take out for part b , so wife and i will have to cut down on our meds , cause we are not signing up for bushes bull shit part d plan unless it is free , with out a monthly fee , we both depend on our meds to just get thru the day with a half ass smile on our face , hang in there u are not along in your fight for a good life

[WinkyDink]

151. {{{TexasLady}}}, you have my admiration for your equanimity in the face of the evil that this nation

perpetrates upon its citizens.

[TexasLady]

182. thank you for that

:hug:

[Kadie]

152. .

:hug:

[lunatica]

153. ((((((((((TexasLady)))))))))))

Hang in there. You'll prevail.

I hope you sent Obama a note telling him about this. I hope you write to all the newspapers and to Rachel Maddow and to your Congressperson. It's worth it to make people know about this because now is the time we're hearing about this shit.

[aquart]

154. Tell your good for nothing state and federal officeholders.

Send them pictures so the staffer opening the envelope has to have an actual human feeling.

[shrdlu]

156. Kay Bailey Hutchinson is running for governor...

...and looking for friends. She's gonna need 'em, imho.
But for the time being she is a U.S. senator and could use all the good
press she can muster. Write her. aquart's suggestion about the photos is
a good one.

[geckosfeet]

155. In Canada you would have had to wait two or three weeks for an appointment.

But you would have health care and a prosthetic.

Actually, all the Canadians I have talked to said for elective/non-emergency procedures you may have a wait of a few weeks.
I suspect in your case you would have had a leg by now.

Hoping for the best outcome for you bro.

[TexasLady]

181. Well I like snow!

I like legs and I like snow...Hmmmm

[Fire1]

157. TexasLady, you and many others are on my prayer list.

Keep your chin up and don't get discouraged. I know that's easier said than done but you must not give up hope.

Much love and support coming your way.:grouphug:

[TexasLady]

185. Much appreciated Fire1

I need em!

[McCamy Taylor]

158. If you have a desk job, they are merciless. One man was paralyzed on one side,

with multiple other problems and they said as long as he could be strapped into a wheelchair and had the use of his right hand, he could still work.

On the other hand, if you did manual labor, then even partially disability involving the back is enough to get you full coverage.

[pollo poco]

159. so sorry

It's barbaric. And scary to read if you don't have insurance.
I wish I could buy you the leg you need. :-(

[TexasLady]

176. thanks pollo poco

I just keep having hope that it WILL come. and am grateful I have crutches and a chair! I just want that lil extra....i sure do miss walking.

[asjr]

160. This is another reason I am so fed up. We should

wipe out the entire government and especially throw out those greedy representatives and senators who are just there to feather their own nests. The whole country needs to know what you are going through! Is there a t.v. or radio station near you who listens to folks who have those kinds of problems? You could get on the air and say exactly what you have told us. I hope to goodness each and every rep or sen gets beaten in the next election that doesn't help us. And I don't care which party they are from. I lived in Texas in the '60s and loved it. Where did it go? Hang in there. Don't give up.

[sam sarrha]

161. i lost a hand.. i had Union Insurance, got a Prosthetic ..works ok, but PTSD is my big problem now..

i talked to my doctor.. he said to try to find a support group. if i got a Psychological flag on my insurance history, i may never get insurance again.. i could be put on a Pariah list. just being given a perscription for anti depressants can get you dropped. there is a company that tracks EVERYBODY'S prescriptions and sells the info to insurance companies.

i spent a year and a half with those rat bastards cutting on my dead hand they put back on.. grafting nerves, skin grafts.. they concocted some grandiose plan to move muscles and nerves around.. i asked them if i would ever be able to pick my nose or scratch my ass with it after the 5 surgeries.. already had 4. he just shrugged and said, no guarantees.. i told him to cut the damn thing off and fit me for a prosthetic. i have to get back to work. 3 days later i had the amputation, was sent home in 36 hours, was back in the hospital in 2 days with a hellatious infection.. for 4 days on an antibiotic drip, if they cant make a fortune on you they dump you.

you have to network around, check on Amputee Support Groups.. they have a wealth of experience with the system. when they cut you off ..you keep going up the chain of command till you get to the top.. take names in front of them, keep a diary of EVERYBODY.. time date place, be neat, record their attitudes, have a list of questions with space for notes under each one..ask them who they work for, who their boss is, his phone number, write it down in front of them.. this note book is a Potential court document.

after the sit down is over, ask them if they know of ant dept, agency or service that might help you.. even total assholes will help you sometimes if you just ask. there are Amputee groups/forums on the internet.

it's all about knowing the "Magic Word"... if you can find out what it is, and who to say it too.. it all falls in place. they have a vested interest in you not coming back and asking lots of questions.

i only kept my job because when i called and said i was released by my doctor to return to work, they told me.."come on in and talk to mary, i clocked in on the way in. i worked 4 months with the dead hand in a brace, it took a week of meetings then, :Inquisitions
i didn't say i was coming back minus a hand.. it really pissed em off i clocked in. i got a talking to about not saying i didn't have a hand. i just said, "oh,.. OK, next time". it put them in a Federal court if they fired me.. i still do twice what other people do.

good luck.. i will send some MoJo your way, I'll call my 88 yr old mother she can really do things... it usually takes a couple weeks.. what is it you want to do for work.?

[TexasLady]

171. wow

my fellow amp,
I am at a loss what you had to endure!!!!
the site I applied at came from a good amp friend. I belong to a couple of good ones..
I am a min. wage gal, so ANY work does me good.

[Fire_Medic_Dave]

162. Sorry.

If you don't mind me asking what was the eventual diagnosis and the first diagnosis? Regardless, you'll be in my prayers if that's okay with you.

[TexasLady]

172. sciatica, four times in a month

that suddenly became arterial thrombosis, blood clots. five to be exact.

[Fire_Medic_Dave]

177. Hire a good attorney. Regardless, I'm sorry.

My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

[Rosa Luxemburg]

163. people need to gather to protest

this can't go on

[Daemonaquila]

164. Questions and maybe answers...

I'm a Texas disability attorney. Depending where you live, I may be able to point you at some of the resources that I refer my clients to. Also, what kind of "advocate" do you have? Depending on the type, you may be cruising for a bruising. There are some independent and law firm non-attorney advocates who kick ass (even better than some attorneys in the business), but there are some that do more harm than good. I'm referring especially to some of the "advocates" who are really collections agencies for the hospitals, who come to a patient's bedside trying to make sure they apply for disability so there will be money to pay the bill.

[TexasLady]

184. Yikes

Im typing a PM now..

[Brigid]

165. Talk to a lawyer.

One who specializes in Social Security. You may be able to find one that will work on a contingency basis. I'm so sorry to hear about this. :(

[debbierlus]

166. I am so sorry - this country is just cruel

100 mil a day on Afghanistan yet no money for this?

[midnight armadillo]

168. Texas in particular - WTF is up with that state?

Seriously, every time I see a story headline about some act of wanton state-inflicted cruelty, 7 out of 10 times it's Texas. 2 of 10 it's Florida, the and other 1 it's one of the other 48 states.

[debbierlus]

170. She is welcome up here - in MA, she would be eligible for full Medicaid benefits

And, I am pretty sure the cost of her leg would be covered.

Texas politics and policy just seem mean-spirited and backward.

[blaze]

167. TL you rock!!!

I remember when you were close to losing your home... and you maintained the same sense of humor. (I'd settle for a peg leg... it's almost Halloween!) I can't tell you how much I admire you for that.

I have a couple of coworkers who have dealt with attempts to get SSI... One, with a severely disabled (physical and metal) son. They had to appeal either 4 or 5 times to finally get coverage. Another is just starting out.. his son was born with no use of his body from the waist down. He just got turned down for SSI because he makes too much money. $26,000.

I trust the advocate you have will help you wend your way through the series of appeals you have ahead for yourself, but I have no doubt that you will eventually get your leg.

Thanks for the spirit that is you. You make me smile. :)

[TexasLady]

175. That was back in April

I had only been home a few weeks...wow what a scary time. And DU just POURED with help. Like a bucket.
I shall be as Tim Allen....Never Give UP, Never surrender! :D

[WestSeattle2]

169. Good grief. This country is seriously messed up. I wish you

and your family all the best, it must be frustrating as hell. Perhaps you should visit a Kay Bailey or Rick Perry fundraiser or news conference, and ask them in front of news cameras what they would suggest you do?

[TexasLady]

174. after the way those idiot teabaggers tore up that one woman

I dont know if I could handle it! Then again, I'd love for the rest of the world (i.e. NOT TEXAS) to see...hmmm...

[WestSeattle2]

193. Absolutley! Let them make asses out of themselves for all to see!

[busybl]

178. I'm hoping to see an update soon from you that you will

get taken care of. Geez, what a place, hunh?
Or you'll have to take repubs advice and beg from your neighbors. Praying for you.

[TexasLady]

183. I saw that too

hell, if all my neighbors for ten miles chipped in, they'd all have to get on food stamps!

like me..:(

[Horse with no Name]

179. I am so sorry that this happened to you

One good thing--the hospital can do NOTHING to recover the money from you.
Maybe you can find a state that is more compassionate to the needs of the working person.
For those that suggest she sue--in Texas, tort reform has taken the luxury of suing doc's for malpractice out of the common working person and it is only a luxury that is allowed for the rich and wealthy. The rest of us just aren't worthy. And every attorney in the state will tell you the same thing.
Good luck to you TexasLady. I will keep you in my thoughts.

[donheld]

188. I"m so very sorry

My sister lost her leg to cancer last August. There was never any chance of a artifical replacement. So I feel for ya. :hug:

[orleans]

189. crap. four minutes past the time to recommend.

i'm so sorry for what you're going through. it's bad enough for people who have insurance and for people who can get a prosthetic limb--but to not have that opportunity to learn how to cope with one is simply unforgivable for this country. stay well/hang in there--things are bound to get better. (i hope!)

[TexasLady]

190. aw thats ok!

I have gotten a lot of support and good wishes, which is what I can always count on here! And thank you for your support too!

[orleans]

191. you're welcome. i can't even imagine what a trying time you & your family

must be going through. hang tough. like i said--it's bound to get better. soon we hope!

[Bucky]

192. How horrible. You have to keep appealing. Everyone gets denied SSI the 1st time

It's a shitty system, but you gotta play the game--keep at it, and God bless you.