Hi my name is Brenda and I have diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, asthma, and I am depressed. I take medicine for all of my problems. What i wanted to ask is how does the SSI people know who is disabled or not just by looking at them? I am only 26 years old and I have 100% neuropathy in both of my legs and my doctor says that i have a pinched nerve in my neck that i will have to have surgery on to fix it. All of my problems are seen from the human eye, but I am in severe pain 24/7.
Thanks Brenda

Jonathan responds: Thanks for your email. Here is my take on your situation. First, because of your age and healthy appearance, you are going to need the strong support of a treating doctor. You will need your doctor to identify specific work limitations arising from your medical problems. Brittle diabetics (insulin dependent diabetics who cannot control their sugar despite the insulin) are at risk for problems like neuropathy, vision issues and other complications. I would want a clear statement from your treating doctor that your condition is irreversible and the prognosis is not good.

You did not say if you were working, but I assume that you are not.
–Jonathan