Since the coronavirus pandemic began, we have seen an increase in COVID-19 long haulers who are now debilitated by COVID-induced POTS or Nervous system disorders. We have been appealing Long Term Disability Insurance denials for clients suffering from POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) and other Nervous System Disorders for many years. And we have found …
Over the years we have represented many clients in Long Term Disability Insurance claims for POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) or EDS (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome)or MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome). Then we started to notice a rise in cases where 2 or all 3 syndromes had been diagnosed. In 2016 Researchers found a genetic mutation that links Ehlers-Danlos …
Long Term Disability & The Comorbidities Of EDS, POTS & MCAS Read More »
Stiff person syndrome (SPS) Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare, progressive syndrome that affects the nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. Although very rare (Stiff Person Syndrome affects only 1 in a million people), McDonald & McDonald has represented several Long Term Disability Insurance clients who have suffered from SPS. The cause of stiff person syndrome is unknown, …
Your autonomic nervous system controls involuntary actions, such as the beating of your heart, breathing, and the widening or narrowing of your blood vessels. When something goes wrong in the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), it can cause serious problems with many body functions that should be automatic. We have represented many individuals with Autonomic dysfunction …
Long Term Disability & Autonomic Dysfunction Or Dysautonomia Read More »
Check out this great article and graph on Understanding Multiple Sclerosis . Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects millions worldwide. This articles provides valuable information on the prognosis of MS and what to expect. Topics includes Myths vs Facts, Symptoms of MS, treatment options, and potential future treatment.
Sjögren’s (“SHOW-grins”) Syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease involving gland dysfunction that can affect the entire body. Because Sjögren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune syndrome, it is found more commonly in families that have members with other autoimmune illnesses. In autoimmune disorders, the immune system, which normally protects the body from infection and cancers, may cause …
Have You Heard of ERISA? It’s important to have familiarity with the Employment Retirement Security Act (ERISA) if you receive employee benefits through your employer. Established in 1974, ERISA sets minimum standards for private industry to protect individuals in employee benefit plans, including pension and welfare benefit plans. Welfare benefit plans may include benefits in …
In My Chronic Illness, I Found A Deeper Meaning This is an interesting article about one man who was used to living his life as an outsider. But then he was diagnosed with central nervous system lupus, and found that nothing had prepared him for “…the outsider status of being chronically ill“. He learns along …
Fibromyalgia Claims Fibromyalgia is a disease that does not offer any objective evidence or test results. It has been difficult to “prove” for long-term disability claims in the past. In 2017 there were two strong decisions which overturned long-term disability benefit denials. Disabled claimants were entitled to long-term disability benefits for fibromyalgia. The 2017 rulings represent important …
Important Shifts in Fibromyalgia Proof for LTD cases 2017 Read More »
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus has been called The Great Pretender in certain medical circles. Here is some information on one of our most commonly represented illnesses. The Great Pretender Many people who suffer from Lupus go through long periods of misdiagnosis. Lupus can pretend to be many other illnesses, so depending on the symptoms, it is …
