My 10,000th post. [View all]

[TexasTowelie]

I was going to come up with something cute, but the truth is that nothing really good is happening with me. I'm stuck in a small town with no friends around, minimal job prospects, and hoping that SSDI will be approved since it looks like the only possibility to regain my independence and be with my pet cat AC that is pictured in the lower left corner.

I'm still looking for employment even though it would probably work against me as far as trying to claim SSDI. However, I've only had one interview via Skype in the past three months and nobody follows up on the other job applications that I submit. I've fallen a generation behind on my technical skills as a data analyst due to the gap in my employment record. There are very few mid-level career opportunities available with most job openings wanting people with 2-5 years of experience and I have over 20 years experience. Combine those factors with an unemployment rate of about 13% in the IT sector and it seems reasonable to believe that no opportunities will ever develop in my career field.

My overall health (both physical and mental) remains in poor shape. I've been running out of breath when I go for short walks or bike rides and make frequent stops to avoid fainting. When I arrive home from my excursions it takes about 20 minutes sitting in front of a fan to cool off and for my heart rate to drop, then I end up collapsing on the air mattress to sleep since I'm exhausted. My mental health situation is also aggravated when dealing with social services and medical practitioners since I seem to fall through the gaps for social programs. I'm about to enter the gap where I will likely lose SNAP benefits while I wait for the determination of SSDI benefits.

In addition, when I spoke with other people seeking SSDI, I learned that some of the applicants waited 3 to 4 years before approval. Needless to say, this added to my deteriorating mental state and intensified my depression. After hearing those stories I hired an attorney as an advocate. SSDI benefits will not provide for a lavish lifestyle, but if they are approved I should regain my independence and not be a burden on my family.

I'm surprised that I made it through to my 10,000th post after my episode back in early April. Several people here at DU have been very helpful to me and I appreciate all the assistance and support that they provided. This is one of the few places that I can turn to and be involved with people who shared wisdom, lived through similar experiences, and are of like philosophies. I'm doing my best to remain hopeful and be patient. In the meantime, I'll conclude the post in LOLCatese and say kthxbai!