Please advise me

[Lana]

After months and months of hard work and seeing Doctor after Doctor and many specialist I have finally got a Hearing coming up for disability. It is in five days from now and its going to be over the phone. I am really nervous because I have alot of trouble concentrating and forgetfulness which someone can confuse with not being honest or trying to hide something. And that really would be upsetting! Because I am telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I heard they try to trick you? Has anyone experience that? Does anyone no what they do over the phone cause I'm all by myself with this, I can't afford a Lawyer! Any advise at all would really be appreciated. Thank you

 

[rtphotos]

Hi Lana,

I see from your profile that you are in Canada. I recently went thru the disability application process, but that was in the U.S. If Canada's judges are anything like most of the ones here, your judge will be respectful and professional.

At the beginning of your hearing, you might bring up your problem with concentration and forgetfulness. I'm sure your judge will understand your nervousness.

Yes, just try to relax the best you can and speak truthfully.

As Judge Judy says, "If you tell the truth, you don't have to have a good memory".

Take care! Be good to yourself! And let us know how your hearing goes.

 

[diamond]

Hi Lana...i agree with rtphotos.

As soon as you have introduced yourself explain you are very nervous and about the concentration /forgetfulness issue....this should also go in your favour as it is part of fibro.

I also agree tell the truth but also don't reply as if you are talking about your good days... reply bearing in mind your bad days or the judge wont get a clear picture.

If you feel mudddled along the way say so. Don't feel rushed or pressurized into giving quick answers. take your time.

You could also write down bullet points of things about your health and how you are affected that are important.....it may help answering questions and /or remind you of things you wish to emphasize to the judge.

We have talk of being tricked in the UK system too. Here it means they assess your appearance and watch how you walk from the car park etc...they cant do that on a telephone.

Maybe you could google that question specifically for Canada and see if any forum results help you.

I guess if you sound all happy and bubbly which i'm sure you wont they could make the assumption you are not in terrible pain.

Good Luck..please let us know x

 

[Lana]

Thank you for your help yes I will try not to get stressed out over this cause that causes me to go blank. I figure if I just tell the truth everything should be ok. I hope I get this because I am really having Financial troubles. I am so nervouse that I'm going to say something stupid which I do alot of the times and forget words that makes me look like I'm a lier. I hate the fact that I couldn't aford a lawyer he sure would help. But I am going to be truthful and hopefully they will see that.

 

[diamond]

I wish you could afford a lawyer too...but i dont think you will come across as a liar at all...if you make a mistake...or say something wrong just have a short phrase you are comfortable with written down on a note pad by the phone that explains it..or call it fibro fog or foggy brain.....hope fully the judge will be familiar with this term!

I will be looking out for how it goes next week.

 

[TipBill]

I have my hearing before a judge on November 10th and like you I am nervous as hell. I do however have an attorney. If I win he gets a cut and if I lose he gets nothing. I too struggle to put my thoughts together into a coherent sentence. Sometimes when I am typing I have to stop and try to picture the word in my mind before I can spell it. I wish you luck and let us know how it turns out.

 

[rtphotos]

Lana,

Good luck on your hearing tomorrow. It's been a long ride for you. Positive thoughts sent your way!

 

[blue paradise]

Lana, positive thoughts headed your way! peace!

 

[diamond]

Good Luck let us know how it goes.x

 

[Lana]

Well I had my hearing over the phone, I was answering all the questions as honestly. But I didn't have help from a lawyer and that just maybe the reason why I don't get it. Anyways I did the very best I could do and its in there hands now. She did say it will take 2 weeks for them to make a decision. Thanks everyone for your advise and I will let you all know when I receive the decision. God Bless you all

 

[diamond]

Ah Lana very well done..that must have taken some courage as i know you were nervous.

I really really hope you get a positive outcome....yes do let us know.

Try and relax now as like you say you have done your best and it is in their hands ..if there is any justice you will get your disability payments.