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See my answers below - from Burdette E. Anderson PD/17 yrs/onset 35/now 51.9 I need some advice. I am in a demanding and responsible position in a fairly large company that is going through reorganization and downsizing. My company has a program that gives those on disability a monthly income. I feel that my work is not as good as it was in the past and I have to work longer hours and harder to do my job. The progression of my PD is slow. I have been able to hide my PD so far, but some days it is difficult. I have been asking myself, “What should I do to assure that I have an income in the future?” How can I determine when it is bad enough to apply for disability?” I hope that I can gain from the insights and wisdom of those on this list. >From what I have seen, there are some insightful people on this list who are willing to share their experiences. 1. Are there steps to take in any order to get on disability? First step: Get a letter from your neurologist verifying date of first onset. Apply for Social Security at your local Social Security office. Go in and say "I want to apply for SS Disability". Not the Social Security supplemental - you want the full blown disability. Social Security may send you to their own doctor for confirmation. This is just a formality. Don't be afraid of this process. 2. Are there any legal rights I might have? Or should be aware of? Of course you do - you have rights to disability from Social Security. Parkinsons is disabiling. 3. Do I need to go on record as having PD before I find that my job could be eliminated? Absolutely, very important. Don't hide this. Establish the onset date and the difficulties you are having at work. Document, document, document. 4. Was it hard to justify that you could not do any job? Could they ask me to be a receptionist or guard or any easy-to-do job instead of going on disability? No, they cannot ask you to do something you are not trained or qualified for, nor can they ask you to take lesser pay just because you are disabled. Look for a Disabled Persons Advocate in your area. Check phone book etc. 5. Did you have to build up a case with your doctor as to what you could do? No - you are disabled. And you are entitled to disability benefits from Social Security. Should your company be so generous to have a supplemental plan - great. Go for it. Then if you want to try to find something to keep you busy - go volunteer or get a job doing something you can physically handle. You may loose $1 for every $2 or $3 you get from Social Security - but remember that it is important to be active, productive and self-satisfied. Personally, I was diagnosed with PD in 1985. I continued to work until 1994. Then moved to Montana and my wife and I are self-employed (in other words: no wage!). I applied for Social Security Disability in 1995. They sent me to a confirming neurologist, I was granted the disability, plus some back pay! Then my union kicked in with full disability payments. We are very lucky. I continue to help around the business, nap alot, take no wage, and get about $2400 per month. I have not gone to the Personal Department because I am not sure how fast the word regarding my condition would spread and what impact it would have on me. Confidential information here! This should not spread unless you spread it. Legal action here I would think, if this happens beyond your control. Again, start with your doctor. But act before you get downsized. Good luck! Would like to hear how you do with this! I really hope that some of you could respond. Looking forward to your insight. Best Regards, George ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn