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When is it time to stop working or go part time.

I was diagnosed 15 years ago I’m almost 51. I’ve been working full time as an RN. Dealing with a flare right now day 2 of solumedrol. I was diagnosed with cognitive disfunction a few years ago and it is much worse now. I now have brain fog. I’m the higher income in the house hold. I’m afraid financially I just can’t go part time or be done if this doesn’t clear up, Any advice on getting disability and is it any help at all?

  1. Hi , as someone who's gone through the disability process, I have some experience here. As far as knowing when it's time to stop, I think that's definitely an individual thing but something you should at least start planning for (it happened suddenly to me and I wish I had had given it more thought to it before it did). If your symptoms are impacting your ability to work, then maybe it's time (I am guessing that being an RN with brain fog could be potentially dangerous as well as difficult).

    Regarding the disability process, I highly recommend getting a disability lawyer (it is surprisingly affordable). It dramatically increases your chances of approval. Even having them help fill out the forms can make a huge difference as they understand the terminology to use and the best way to fill out the forms to have the best success.

    As far as disability helping, well, it's difficult, it isn't much money, but it's the only option for many of us.

    1. My heart goes out to you, . That is a difficult position to be in and there are no easy answers. Disability doesn't pay a lot. It is based on your income and the national average is $1,358, according to my research. No one can really tell you when to stop working. There are too many variables, especially since the MS journey is unique to each person. But it might be wise to assume to the worst and plan for it. Is there a financial advisor you can meet with to determine your how low you can go in terms of income? Ultimately, you have to do what is best for your health even if that means making financial sacrifices. Here is an article about social security disability that includes a paragraph about making that decision: https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/social-security-disability-pitfalls. I hope this helps and that your flare resolves quickly and fully. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)

      1. A bit off topic, your being an RN, I'd like to say thank you for risking your life to help other people during the covid crisis.

        1. , I'd like to echo your words of thanks for ! I can't offer more advice than already was offered, but thank you for your service as a nurse, especially during covid. I think nurses are amazing!


          Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team member.

      2. It's good you are diagnosed with something. It was the second time I applied for a disability that I got it. Being with the VA I had help with an organization in getting disability.My mother-in-law, a nurse, tried multiple times and then went through a lawyer. Previously she was told "If you can go out to eat you do not qualify for disability"

        1. , wow! That comment to your mother-in-law was pretty harsh (and hopefully, not accurate). Thanks for sharing your insight with . I am glad the second time was the charm for you.


          Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.

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