I am actually looking at joining the DAV. I am considering having them represent me to get to 100%. But it cost like $250 to join. I don't have that right now. But I think it would be beneficial for me to join. Membership with an organization like that has its perks.
According to the CFR 38, the tinnitus is worth like 10%. Thats all though. The bowel incontinence is worth like 30% because it requires me to wear a diaper. The hypothyroid is also worth like 30% because it causes fatigue and I have to take a medication to control it. I could not find hypothyroidism in the CFR but I did find prior cases that were adjudicated by the VA and those people had similiar cases to mine, they were awarded 30%. Chronic Diarrhea resulting from near constant GI distress as a result of irritable colon syndrome is also worth 30%
So if I can maintain my current ratings of 50% and 60% for the Bipolar and Urinary Incontinence, then my formula should look something like .5 x .4 x .7 x .7 x .7 x .9 = .061. So 6% effective or 94% disabled. The VA determines its disability ratings in increments of 10. I may be able to get 100%. If I can, its worth $2932 per month plus $75 for an extra qualifying child. That is $3007 per month. If I could get 100%, I could get my own place and afford to support my family. I don't want to seem greedy, I just want to be self sufficient and have a normal life. My disabilities cost me so much. I want to be as normal as possible.
All of these side effects are a direct result of my Bipolar medication, except for the tinnitus. I had to get medical documentation from my doctors stating that they were related. I managed to do that but it was hard. I have good doctors who are willing to work with me. I am really greatful and I hope this works out!
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