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Monday, June 4, 2007

Another Day of Life

Another Day of Life
June 4, 2007
Richard O. Harris

Well, here I am again trying to maneuver through yet another day of continuous manipulations both internally and externally. Internally, things are doing well compared to recent past events. Externally, things require a lot more attention.

All in all, my mood has been good (when I can stay awake) except for the constant worry of things material. Things like how I am going to pay the bills and what happens next physically. I am certain an answer will be provided soon whether it is the one I want or not.

Still, the paperwork involved is unbelievable. If I were not already “mentally ill” the amount of information required by various agencies would drive me insane LOL. Of course, that is a dramatization but you get my point.

Starting in May I had to provide four (4) doctors with forms that required their evaluation of my competency to work a full time job. This requirement was part of the Short Term Disability Insurance I have paid for during the last 6 years of my employment. To exacerbate matters, the Administrator of the Insurance, not my doctors, has the final say as to whether it is approved or not.

I did finally receive approval for the month of May around the last week of May but then only had a few days before I had to return to the same 4 doctors to request more validation for an extension of these ‘benefits’. Fortunately, my doctors are all too aware of the shenanigans imposed by this company and have been more helpful than I can imagine. Still I now wait on the Insurance Administrator to approve or deny the extension.

What a frigging mess!!! It is a shame when a totally uninvolved entity that has never had any interaction with me has the authority to approve or deny my own doctors’ opinions. We will see how it all turns out but I am still waiting for my payment from the last month, which makes things confusing.

In the meantime, I have also started my application for Social Security Disability, again at my doctors’ suggestion. Surprisingly enough this was easier than working with my employer. Though they requested a butt-load of information regarding my medical history, I was able to provide most of it online. Also, since I had previously applied several years ago just to get my name and information in the system, it did not take nearly as long.

So now, I wait on both agencies and hope for the best. Though I dread going on Social Security Disability permanently, I see no other choice as my ability to function with a clear mind continues to diminish. It will mean a major reduction in monthly and annual income for me and I am not sure how I will adjust but adjust I must.

For today, I have another day of life, one doctor to see and another day of waiting. Tomorrow, I see two doctors and wait. After that, I wait on the doctors and the agencies to determine how I will support my self.

Nonetheless, all of this is promising in that I have something to hope for on all sides. I am in a good place mentally if not physically right now so none of this has brought me any despair. I woke up thankful and remain thankful for another day of life.

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous8:44 AM

    Your Blog indicates clear and appropriate thinking. Logically it could be used against you if it fell into the wrong hands. These are just my thoughts! Take care and enjoy life as best you can!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous12:34 PM

    You are so correct in your observation regarding Social Security. For being a government bureau, I have never had the first bit of trouble getting answers promptly and it all being so terribly easy. It scares me sometimes that they made it so simple for such a simple mind as I have. I am glad that you are moving along quickly with them and feel sure that it will work out the way you want. KEEP AT IT.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous9:00 AM

    We are praying for you uncle rick. I hope everything works itself out. If
    you need anything give us a hollar and keep those writings coming I really
    enjoy reading it . we love ya!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Anonymous7:13 PM

    Older (66) in Tulsa Ok. I also suffer from bi-polar disorder, and sympathize completely with the ordeal of applying for disability. I live on regular soc sec plus "old age" assistance so understand your financial struggles! If I didnt live in a HUD facility for seniors, I couldnt make it!
    I'm recovering from 2 back surgeries (last one May 8th) and dealing with pain meds, pain management and lack of sleep has led to several short breakdowns because of feeling overwhelmed of dealing with my 2 Drs, neither who wants to be involved in my post-operative pain management! My PCP even asked why I was still having pain (after one month!) as if I know! I mean really--he's the f-ng Dr!
    Ah yes! Struggling to stay centered in self-acceptance and some gratitude in the face of (seeming) adverserial circumstances!
    Best of luck to you ... while you deal with all this other stuff!! Troy
    (edited for content)

    ReplyDelete

Feedback is always encouraged and appreciated. Even if I do not like what is said, I do want to keep an open mind and listen. Rick

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