New Player- Introducing myself

fragrlr0ck wrote:
I’m glad to see space like this pop up in a game specific forum. I started playing this game as stress release from grant writing. My research looks at health care access (in the US) for people living with chronic pain conditions and autoimmune syndromes, or what we refer to in my discipline as “contested” illnesses. Contested illness simply refers to illnesses that are challenging to identify and treat because each person experiences symptoms differently, symptoms range in severity and frequency, and there are oftentimes vague boundaries for diagnosis. Lupus, celiac, PTSD, fibromyalgia, CFS, phantom limb, MCS, and so many others fall under this category. Although each state (or health insurance company) has a different set of guidelines, navigating those guidelines is what I do professionally. If I can ever be of help to anyone please let me know. I may not be able to answer specific questions, but I may have a colleague who can or know of a resource that could be useful.

Cheers and happy tapping

Thank you. I myself am from Canada, but I'm sure several here could use assistance. I myself fought with our government disability for eight years before finally getting it. (I think it might even be a record, as I've never heard of anyone waiting that long) I worked & contributed all my life, & then when you need it, they refuse to give it to you. Most of what I suffer from are what you call "contested" illnesses...the Fibro, CFS, Etc. Even my other health problems/illnesses that can be proven, like my Degenerative Disk disease, Arthritis, etc., and the depression & PTSD (which I have too) were turned down. I had literally hundreds of doctor's reports & tests, from my family doctor, multiple specialists, hospitals & pain clinics, yet I was told I could work. It wasn't until I was diagnosed with IH (which is a very rare illness) that they finally granted me my disability. When I finally received it, they stated that I should have been approved upon my initial application & apologized. They also retro payed me 7 1/2 years. Take this as a lesson to NEVER give up! No matter what they say, keep fighting. All this, by the way, WITHOUT a lawyer!
Thank you for posting about this. It may be the difference in someone's life they need. And you may be the key to helping someone. It's such a difficult road for those of us who suffer with these invisable illnesses & chronic pain.

Keep the faith & never give up!!