Can You Help?
(continued)
ITEM CYH106, posted 2-09
I need to find someone who can build and fit an appliance to elevate my soft palate. Polio has left me with a weakness in my soft palate, which, in turn presents a nasal tone to my voice. I can't find one in Las Vegas. Any ideas out here? Please contact me: rudyastolz@cox.net
Response, 2-27-09: An experienced prosthodontist can create an appliance (called a palatal lift),and your best bet of finding one is to locate a craniofacial clinic of a larger, hospital. A good way to judge what improvement it might yield is to occlude your nares, creating a condition of some hyponasality. You may obtain at least that amount of improvement, but likely not too much more as a consequence of the prosthesis alone. Mary Spremulli, MA, CCC-SLP
Advice for filing for private disability
ITEM CYH104, posted 3-05
I am a polio survivor and am working full-time, but am suffering from the late effects of polio and I may have to discontinue working. I have private disability insurance through my employer. Any advice on the most efficient way to file for private disability, assuring quick and simple approval to receive disability benefits? Ann, Texas
Response: I am a member of the Board of Directors of Post-Polio Health International and was advised of your question. I also have post-polio and faced the same issue a little more than one year ago.
First, do not file for disability coverage before a thorough discussion with your physicians and, I strongly recommend, a qualified attorney. Each case is different and the determination if based on your specific insurance policy and your medical records. Every company is also different.
The question they will ask is why could you work last month but not now? What is different? Unless the medical records strongly support recent changes in your condition, they are likely to turn you down. You should see your medical records to see how thorough they document the changes you are facing.
After working with an attorney for several months I had things as set up as possible and applied. I was approved and have been receiving benefits for about 11 months. My policy permits part time work which I am engaged in.
The attorney I used is Mark DeBofsky who can be reached at 312-372-5200 or mdebofsky@ddbchicago.com. He practices all over the country. Good luck.
Saul J. Morse, Attorney, Brown, Hay & Stephens, LLP, 205 S. Fifth Street, Suite 700, P.O. Box 2459, Springfield, IL 62705, 217-241-5053, 217-241-3111 fax, smorse@bhslaw.com
Accessibility
ITEM CYH103, posted 6-04
We are renovating our home and need help in making it accessible, especially the kitchen, bathroom, and stairs. Is there a website that will give us the needed info? Are there companies that specialize in accessible furnishings such as cabinets, appliances, elevators? Are we looking at a great deal of expense or is there someone who can help us make these changes for a reasonable price? Gail, Tennessee
Two resources available on the web:
