When dealing with any governmental entity it is good to have some information before you start. The United States Social Security Administration has a document on-line that can assist you in determining if you may be eligible for a determination of disabled. It can be found here;
Listing of Impairments - Adult Listings (Part A)
It is called Disability Evaluation Under Social Security, also referred to by many as the Disability Blue Book. The section that covers Wegener’s Granulomatosis is Section 14.00 Immune System Disorders. I found it helpful to read the entire section but for the ones that are having a hard time concentrating, I found the following parts most useful;
14.00 Immune system disorders
B. What information do we need to show that you have an immune system disorder?
D. How do we document and evaluate the listed autoimmune disorders?
2. Systemic vasculitis
J. How do we evaluate your immune system disorder when it does not meet one of these listings?
14.03 Systemic vasculitis As described in 14.00D2
For me the disability chase started in the hospital within hours of diagnosis. I had a social worker that had many years of experience to draw from bestow upon me some wisdom that has helped me through this time in my life. Most people that are going through a drastic life changing event have a tendency to see themselves in better physical and/or mental condition than they really are. Don’t do this. First be honest with yourself and admit your life has changed. Second, when filling out paperwork tell the truth, answer the questions accurately as to the level of dysfunction you have experienced. Third, look up Wegener’s in the Blue Book. And I will add, if you meat a condition listed, use their keyword’s.
I hope some may find this useful.