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Help! Disabled and Fighting for Benefits

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Hello, my name is Chuck, I am physically disabled due to multiple health issues and in need of financial help.

My story:

I started working when I was a teenager as a restaurant cook and eventually started my career in the steel industry. For many years I was a steel worker, working many days over 12 hours daily and weeks straight without a day off. I was a productive and contributing member of society, who enjoyed outdoor activities and taking care of members of my family.

Over the years, I developed some health issues including diabetes, high blood pressure and neuropathy. Although I had health issues, I continued working however started to struggle a bit getting through everyday activities. I was determined to not let my health issues take over my life and wanted to remain independent and a contributing member of society.

In 2020, I contracted COVID and shortly after had my first stroke. At this point my life completely changed. Over the next few years, I had multiple strokes, many extended hospital stays and a complete decline in my physical health, independence and abilities.

Since having my initial stroke I have had the following continued medical issues:

- Issues balancing
- Issues with walking, standing, sitting for longer than 20 minutes at a time
- Issues speaking clearly
- Issues with vision
- Increased exhaustion
- Increased weight gain due to lack of mobility
- Increased issues with high blood pressure and diabetes
- Stage 3 kidney disease
- Depression

After my initial stroke, I was no longer able to work and have relied on my family to help support me.

I have applied for social security 3 times and have been denied even though the court states that I have more than enough medical issues.
I currently am working with a lawyer to appeal through the social security council.

Since 2020, I have relied on my amazing family for support and would not have been able to survive without them. I currently live with my mom who ensures I have a roof over my head. I have received financial help from my mom, sister, niece and nephew and friends to help pay my monthly expenses. I have learned to live off of almost nothing and get food donations from local charities and organizations.

Although my family has been extremely generous and supportive of me, it is starting to take its toll financially as I owe them over $15000. My lawyer states this next appeal process could take over a year. My family has stated they will continue to help me however I know it takes a lot from them and I hate being a burden to them.

I am asking for financial assistance to try and pay back some of the funds I owe and also to limit the amount I need to borrow from my family until my appeal goes through.

Prior to my health issues, I was a productive member of society that contributed to my family, my community and my friends. I feel as if my government has failed me and keeps denying me the benefits that I am clearly entitled to.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.
Chuck

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    Organizer

    Charles Pittman
    Organizer
    Prudenville, MI

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