neurowreck

You might look into Social Security Supplemental Income, and possibly Social Security Disability. I'm in the middle of that process right now, and never thought I'd have to do that, but if it's the difference between being homeless, or having the ability to have basic needs met, it's there for that reason. The process isn't much fun, but at least it's an option. I've been off work for 16 months because of seizures- and it stinks. I told my boss at my initial interview that I was epileptic, just because someone in the building needed to know what was going on if I started acting weird (I have complex partials and look drunk when I start waking up after sleeping for hours afterwards- question about mild secondary generalization).

Maybe acknowledge the epilepsy on the standard health questionaire, but don't mention the surgery, so you can at least get prescription coverage, and if you can pick an HMO, many of them don't have pre-existing limitations...your surgery would still be covered....and they can't fire you for having a physical problem. They can make excuses for NOT hiring you, but once you're on the payroll, you fit under the ADA, and can make a big stink if they try to get rid of you...also sign up for any long or short term disability insurance- unlike social security, all that takes is a doctor's evaluation that you can't work, and it's a done deal....it's not regular income, but it's kept me from living on the streets....you might not be able to get short term dis ins (I couldn't because on paper I look like a train wreck), but upgrade the LTD if you can.

It's so frustrating to want to work, and be turned away for something you can't control, and are trying to get fixed. And you're right- people do jump to conclusions, and JUDGE those with many disorders, when they don't fully understand them to begin with.