No progress in preparing my disability application - My first step in getting established with new docs in my new city was a gastroenterologist. Because I still had insurance in March she wanted to do a colonoscopy even though there was no sign of an active flare. Since I hadn't paid any toward the deductible, it cost thousands to discover nothing except some vague signs of chronic inflammation and a polyp. Then I went to see the attorney recommended by the national association of disability attorneys referred to on this board. She was kind but not encouraging. I was told to come back at the end of the year when I had more solid medical evidence of disability. She advised that I follow up on the neurological impairments (chronic cauda equina) with a neurologist, as that might be a better focus than the non-fusing spondylitis.
The new rheumatologist I was supposed to see May 7 was ill, so the appointment was rescheduled to June 11. The old rheumy provided me with some Humira samples that I've been using. . . have the paperwork together to apply for medication assistance, but can't send in without doc's orders.
Because I am now living off my life savings I'm afraid to spend it all in pursuit of what may be vague results that will get me nowhere on my disability application.
I apologize for this rambling update, but it was a rough night with pain and stiffness.
On the good new side is the arrival of my new granddaughter. She is the brightest reason for my move here and well worth the pain and effort. I'm a little worried I may be too disabled to care for her on a daily basis after her mother returns to work June 4, but I'm hopeful things will work out.
Thanks to all for your encouragement on this board. All the step-by-step disability application posts have been very helpful.
Female age 67. HLA B-27 negative spondylitis, Crohn's, M-type MGUS, incomplete cauda equina syndrome, osteoporosis, peripheral neuropathy, asthma. Remicade, low dose prednisone, tramadol, nortriptyline at bedtime for neuropathic pain. Daughter 40 has B-27 positive AS and has used Enbrel about 25 years.
| 
