Hi
I was granted permission from Cynthia Altamirano to share our email communication about her son Jacob who passed away at just 24 and had not yet been approved for his disability.
I am in hopes that this story helps you understand that there really are for F.ree disability Assistance organizations that provide financial assistance, legal aid, advocacy, support groups and more..
Scroll down to read the story and learn how to contact your local center for independent living.
From: Cynthia Altamirano
Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2010
Subject: My son Jacob…
Dear Brain,
Approximately 2 years ago you were email contact with my son, Jacob, regarding his disability claim. The attorney’s he contracted with petitioned the court to be dropped from the case as soon as they were informed of his death. My husband was contacted several times by a representative from the Disability Board before
agreeing to continue his case. We were unaware that the courts were moving on this, and very surprised when we were advised to step in for Jacob. At this time my husband is handling the claim, but we are still very emotional and it is difficult to follow through.
We have been notified of a Hearing on the matter on May 4th, but many of the medical providers have yet to respond the requests for records. We would like to enlist some assistance at this time because we are clearly out of our depth and emotionally overwhelmed.
Would you happen to know of anyone in the Bay Area (specifically the East Bay) that we could perhaps contact to help us on this claim?
I appreciate all of the advice you gave Jacob in 2008, it is unfortunate he did live to use it to his advantage. All he wanted was to receive the care he needed and to be able to obtain gainful employment following rehabilitation from the surgeries.
Thank you again,
Cyn Altamirano
From: Brian Therrien
Sent: Monday, April 12, 2010 7:02 AM
Subject: RE: My son Jacob…
Cyn
Glad to help,
As for step one I suggest you contact your local center for independent living the case and ask for a referral.
Also let me know how old your son is an I may have other options.
To learn about centers for independent living and contact your local click here.
Brian Therrien
The Disability Digest
From: Cynthia Altamirano
Sent: Thursday, January 20, 2011 8:42 PM
To: ‘Brian Therrien’
Subject: RE: My son Jacob…
Dear Brian,
I’m using the reply function on this email so that you might better know who/what this is about. I wanted to say thank you for the information you provided. My husband contacted the Center for Indep Living and received a referral to John C. Willbrand here in Concord, Ca. Mr Willbrand did excellent work even though the case had no real money in it.
Today we received a Notice of Decision – Fully Favorable to Jacob’s claim of disability.
Although this notice brings up more of the pain of our loss, and potent reminders of Jacob’s terrible ordeal, we are satisfied that his claim would have been granted. It may seem strange, but to us, Jacob is vindicated.
Thank you again for your advice to my son and husband. God bless you and the work you do to help others.
Sincerely,
Cyn Altamirano
———–the end————
Cynthia contribution proves that centers for independent living are one of the best kept secrets for F.ree Legal Aid and more.
To learn about centers for independent living and contact your local click here.
Regards
Brian Therrien
The Disability Digest
Understanding Continuing Disability Reviews: Key Updates and Guidance
Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the critical topic of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), which are essential for individuals receiving disability benefits. The focus today is on recent statistics and personal anecdotes that highlight the ongoing importance of staying informed about CDRs.
What is a Continuing Disability Review?
A Continuing Disability Review is a routine process for individuals who have been approved for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts these reviews to determine if the health of a beneficiary has improved to the point where they can return to work, and thus no longer qualify for benefits.
Recent Case and Discussion
Recently, a case surfaced involving a person who had been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for end-stage kidney failure since they were 20. Despite their condition remaining unchanged, they received a notification of health improvement at age 50 and were at risk of losing their benefits. This situation underscores the unpredictability and significance of understanding the CDR process.
How CDRs Work
During a CDR, beneficiaries might be asked to complete a short or long form detailing their current health status. The forms are then reviewed, and if further information is needed, a full medical review may be initiated. It's crucial for recipients to respond promptly to any communications from the SSA to avoid complications or cessation of benefits.
Statistics and Trends
In 2022, approximately 1.5 million of the estimated 9 million disability recipients underwent CDRs. Of these, about 125,000 had their benefits terminated. These statistics reflect a consistent review rate, with an apparent annual increase in the number of reviews conducted, emphasizing the necessity for beneficiaries to stay vigilant.
Key Takeaways
Stay Informed: Always keep your contact information up to date and pay close attention to all correspondence from the SSA. Missing a notification or failing to respond can lead to benefit termination.
Understand the Review Frequency: Depending on the expectation of medical improvement, reviews may occur more frequently. Typically, conditions considered likely to improve are reviewed sooner and more often.
Prepare Adequately: If a review is scheduled, ensure all medical documentation is current and complete. Understanding the review process and preparing accordingly can significantly affect the outcome.
Seek Expert Advice: Engaging with professionals who specialize in disability rights and CDRs can provide crucial support and guidance. For instance, next week, we will feature an in-depth discussion with Attorney James Mitchell Brown, a veteran in the field of social security disability.
Conclusion
Continuing Disability Reviews are a standard part of the disability benefits process, but they can be daunting. By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, beneficiaries can navigate these reviews successfully. Remember, the goal is not only to retain benefits but also to ensure that the support aligns correctly with the individual’s current health needs.
Stay tuned for more updates and expert insights in our upcoming posts, and don't hesitate to reach out with your questions or for further information.
Brian
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