I spoke with a company that handles ssdi claims and I don’t qualify for it. I need 28 credits to get it and I am short by 8. I would have to work for two more years full-time. I don’t know if I can physically do that. She said you could try for ssi but I don’ qualify there either. I hope to get relief from my weakness in my lags by getting the nerve ablation done in my lower back soon. Then at least I could stand up and get some kind of job… Very hard for someone that has only been a nurse for on and off for last 20 years to find a job in other industries. How do I go about re writing a resume to fit say a retail sectors ?
Hi Robin,
Sorry to hear about the trouble you’re having. Have you applied for Social Security yet? Maybe you will qualify for something afterall like maybe partial benefits or something, I don’t know though. I’m surprised that working as a nurse for 20 years, even off and on didnt earn you enough credits. I really hope you’re able to get some relief from your weakness so that you can work a little longer. I’ve just started taking a class at the YMCA called Joint Mobility, it’s just stretching and moving your joints in a warmer than normal pool but after nearly a year of little to know activity, it kicked my butt! I’m so sore and achy! Everyone in that class is 30-40 years older than me and most of them seemed to do well. Maybe look in to something like that when you’re ready. I only signed up for a 1 week trial but they offer an assistance program for people with limited resources to reduce the cost of the membership so I’m going to apply for that so keep that in mind if you decide to look in to it and you’re strapped for cash. It would probably help you regain your strength once you get the procedure done, maybe even before that but I am not familiar with the nerve ablation. Good luck to you! I hope things turn around for you.
Oh Robin
I am so sorry that you are short enough credits to qualify for ssdi. Very valid questions. What do you qualify after being a nurse of and on for the last 20 years? Have you been a nurse on the wards in the hospital setting? Are there other nurse jobs like public health nurse, home care nurse and others? Hopefully these would not be so demanding hours wise nor on your feet wise. Where I live some nurses retire from hospital work and go to the Health Unit and they just love it. It deals more with the elderly and Wellness Clinics.
Gentle hugs
Rachel
Oh Robin, I'm so sorry to hear this! It's certainly not what you wanted to hear.
What about a companion to an elderly person? I don't think that's too difficult a job. And your background would be a big plus.
Otherwise, you could emphasize that you provided customer service to your clients and their families. You could provide a few examples that don't give away any personal details. Something like, provided medications in a timely manner, offered coffee to client and family. Also mention if you answered any phones. Same for computer. (In fact, why not an office job? Do you know Microsoft office?) Stress that you're people oriented and very punctual. If you are open to working a variety of different hours, say that too. Do you like pets? If so, Petco and Petsmart are always hiring and offer health insurance. I liked working there but my legs hurt terribly.
I hope this was of some assistance to you. Good luck!
Hi Robin,
After a exhaustive exploration of all my body systems for the source/cause of the symptoms I had been experiencing, I was finally referred to a rheumatologist. It didn't take him long to diagnose me with Fibromyalgia, and the first thing the doc said to me was, "Get an attorney." Well, I did, and it actually didn't take them long to help me get qualified for SSDI. There are lots of law firms that specialize in this area and they can be found about anywhere in the country. They do charge for their services, but it's a reasonable percentage of the lump sum the SSA will ultimate probably have to pay you....it's very worth it. Please at least look up some, and give 'em a call. Good luck and don't give up! I know for a fact that the SSA counts on applicants becoming discouraged and giving up on their applications. They think they will save money, but because they lose so many appeals, it winds up costing them (we taxpayers) more. Hang in there!
Hugs,
Gordon