frustrated

good morning.

i am feeling depressed, defeated and angry.  i have been spending more time at home to avoid going out in public because of my condition.  it may be the holiday seasons coming up that also contributing to how i'm feeling.  today i have a telephone appointment with a congresswoman to discuss how i can see how an advocacy can be formed (if not already) to go to DC to discuss how we have to wait 2-3 years to get a decision on disability.  i think if you have uncontrollable diahrrea, along with arthritis pains, etc., and have been determined disabled by more than one physcian, you shouldn't have to wait that long.  i know that there are many cd sufferers going through the same ordeal and the financial strain can worsen your physical and mental condition. there really needs to be something done about the disability criteria for this disease and i may just be wasting my breathe talking to the congresswoman but i have nothing to lose by asking what steps i need to take to get someone to listen.  because i'm home everyday, i never hear any talkshows discussing our disease or the drama that comes with it.  thanks for listening.  i just needed to get this off my chest.

Hi tlw,
Good for your that you are speaking to your congresswoman...not only can you try to get some govt. advocacy, but don't be shy and ask if she will intervene and write a letter to social security disability on your behalf. While you are at it, call your state senator and governor. You never know which one might listen and help. My friend who has very severe Crohn's did get disability in Michigan, but it took several years and an attorney.
I hope your holidays go ok. I know what it's like when you are sick for so long, it feels like you dropped out of society. Accept support from anyone willing to be there for you. And of course there's always us...keep writing!