Hi Debo.  Yes it is possible, but it is very difficult, and they are
working to make it harder. The system is badly flawed. It often takes 2-4
years just to get through the application process, and the applicant
cannot be employed during that time.  This is where you want to start:

http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/

Best of luck
kj

On Oct 30, 3:31 pm, DarlinD...@webtv.net (DarlinDebo Dreamweaver)
wrote:

Hi Deb - I just went to a SSA ALJ hearing with a friend of mine who has
Hep C.  He has been in treatment for about 2 1/2 years and is looking
at another 8 months or so.  It does not seem to be working from my view
point.  That is what the doctor just told him.

Anyway, he applied in March, 2006, after 2 months flat on his back
unable to work.  I helped him fill out SSA's application, page after
page.  My friends terrible symptoms are of course caused by the meds.
We went on and on about how this impacted his life.

He had some lawyer group from California "helping" him.    He met their
local attorney a half hour before the hearing.  My friend told the
lawyer that he had been working, self employed for several months.  The
lawyer almost called it quits right there.

I explained to lawyer that while he has been receiving about $1,000 a
month self employed, he spent $22,000 on charge cards to get it.  He
grosses zero.   It is not a viable business with his health as poor as
it is.  Also my friend's judgement is poor because of the drugs.  It is
just that he feels he must work no matter what.  I had tried to tell
him that he would be better living off those charge cards until a
determination is made.  He has a very meager lifestyle - $500 a month
would have got him thru.

Anyway, at the hearing - it is for one hour exactly.  The lawyer said
he will talk alot to kill that hour then the Vocational guy doesnt get
a lot of time.  The vocational guy talks about what jobs are possible
for someone to do.  Based on age, educational level, etc.  Being under
50 is a minus.  Having more than a high school is a minus - simply
because a college degree might expand the job chances of you being able
to work on your butt.

When my friend said he made the money - the judge sort of laughed and
said that there was no point in going on.  I sort of squeaked at that
and the judge looked at me.  He previously had told me I was not
allowed to speak or make any sounds because I wasn't sworn in.  Anyway
I motioned to my friend with my hand a big fat zero.  That is when the
attorney raised the issue about netting nothing.  The judge was very
nice, he could have tossed me out on my a.s.

The judge agreed to go further then if my buddy would be able to show
that he did not make any money.  He gave him 3 weeks to get it all
together to provide.  I just sent off all his income and expenses from
this year to the lawyers group and just in case they couldnt get it to
the east coast fast enough, I sent one packet to the judge.

The judge had said he was inclined to look favorably on his application
except for the problem that the money presented.  If you make under
approximately $850 - I believe it is called SGA - substantial gainful
activity or something like that - you have a much better chance of
presenting a case.

Also when you are filling out their application you need to look beyond
the hep c.  Sometimes when people are ill, they focus on 1 health
problem.  They forget they have arthritis, diabetes, overweight, etc
because they may be managing them.  You must include every darn thing
on the app.  Tell them what your day is like, tell them the medicines,
etc.  That your sex life is hell.  Those things are quality of life
issues.  The side effects of the medicines ARE considered.

You are rejected the first time - here it takes 2 months.  They figure
if you take no the first time - what the heck. You appeal and appeal.
When you go as high as you can go, you apply again.  At the second app,
you have to show further problems, it cant be the same thing going in.

This is the most tragic treatment for a health problem that I could
imagine.  I read these boards to see if I can find him some help.  I
hope that I have helped you!

It took me 2.5 years, but did not get much anywhere without a GOOD LAWYER.
As soon as the lawyer got involved it was easy .   A job while trying will
really hurt your chances.   I know a great lawyer in Michigan, and Hawaii.
Good luck....t