Haven't been able to be on this board for sometime due to my health and caring for my husband. But I am taking the time to give the ones that are waiting for a decision after the first denial/or just denied that here is hope.
Quick story on hubby.
Applied 8/05 due to DPN, Chronic Pain & Depression- We had date of disability as of 6/05--SS changed date of disability from 6/05 to 10/03 because that is when first became disabled. Denied 11/05. Appealed 11/05 after seeing SSDI attorney. Got notice of ALJ hearing for 1/12/07. During the course of waiting for the appeal the attorney worked with us to get as much additional medical done (EMG, Physic eval, new neuro, foot dr, eye dr, etc) to show that the condition is getting worse just incase the approval isn't for the date we wanted.
Now for the good stuff------APPROVED all the way back to 10/03!!!!!The ALJ only talked to my hubby for about 10 minutes. Didn't want any more info. He took my hubby's age 57, his former work and all of his medical problems and said no way can he work anymore.
We are PA...all back money from 10/03 (minus the 5 month waiting period) will be paid in 1 lump sum. And Medicare will kick in immediately.
Now for all you Big strong guys out there----my word of advice to you is---don't hide anything as far as how bad your pain is or how you feel. If you feel like crying do so at your hearing....My BIG STRONG hubby didn't hide a thing. Actually he had an emotional breakdown at the hearing. This whole process was so draining and overwhelming he just couldn't stand to think that what he might say would cause another denial.
So guys hold in there. Hopefully you to can post good news soon.

countrykid---God bless you both.

ICC:)

CONGRATS TO YA NEIGHBOR!! :wave:

I am so happy to hear your good news! I completed my appeal after initial denial, was sent another form to fill out on daily living activities and am waiting to hear from them. I hope I do not have to wait as long as ya'll!
MimGregg:wave:

Congrats on your approval! I was denied the first time and appealed my case and went back and was told that I was getting my full 100% Disability and I also got all my back pay. I started drawing mine back in 1990.

Wanted to take the time to give you guys an update. Like my first post stated my hubby was approved at the hearing 1/12/07. He got his fully favorable letter on 2/2/07 exactly 3 weeks after the hearing. Now for those that are also in our shoes waiting for the check & backpay the letter said he could call the local SS office and they could tell him when to expect his checks. Also I don't know how each state works completely but here in PA you are suppose to get your money with in 60 days of decision.
So I will keep you guys posted. Hopefully my health will get alittle bit better so I can contribute to this site.

Hey congrats and way to go!!! Your story sounds like mine exactly....