My name is Stephanie and thanks to DRI I have a job, medical coverage, and money to pay my mortgage.
If you have ever faced being sick, unemployed, and without medical coverage, you know how desperate I felt. Carpel tunnel syndrome caused me to lose my job and medical coverage. Therefore, I could not pay for the surgery needed to correct it. I applied for Social Security benefits but was denied. I felt sure I would be homeless soon!
I heard about DisAbility Rights Idaho and called right away. A DRI attorney agreed to appeal my Social Security denial. She also told me I might be eligible for services from the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Fortunately, I was eligible and this agency paid for my surgery and helped me find part-time work. Later, the DRI attorney won my Social Security appeal.
My life started to come back together. I needed the extra money from work, but I was afraid that if I worked, I would lose my Social Security and Medicaid coverage. Luckily, DRI also helps people learn about special Social Security and Medicaid programs that allow people to work and still receive benefits. I can work part-time and receive some monthly benefits and Medicaid. DRI told me that I when I am ready to work full-time, I can still keep my Medicaid.
I am very thankful to DRI for helping me in so many ways!
* Name changed to protect privacy