When is it time to stop working or go part time.

Hi , as someone who's gone through the disability process, I have some experience here. As far as knowing when it's time to stop, I think that's definitely an individual thing but something you should at least start planning for (it happened suddenly to me and I wish I had had given it more thought to it before it did). If your symptoms are impacting your ability to work, then maybe it's time (I am guessing that being an RN with brain fog could be potentially dangerous as well as difficult).

Regarding the disability process, I highly recommend getting a disability lawyer (it is surprisingly affordable). It dramatically increases your chances of approval. Even having them help fill out the forms can make a huge difference as they understand the terminology to use and the best way to fill out the forms to have the best success.

As far as disability helping, well, it's difficult, it isn't much money, but it's the only option for many of us.

My heart goes out to you, . That is a difficult position to be in and there are no easy answers. Disability doesn't pay a lot. It is based on your income and the national average is $1,358, according to my research. No one can really tell you when to stop working. There are too many variables, especially since the MS journey is unique to each person. But it might be wise to assume to the worst and plan for it. Is there a financial advisor you can meet with to determine your how low you can go in terms of income? Ultimately, you have to do what is best for your health even if that means making financial sacrifices. Here is an article about social security disability that includes a paragraph about making that decision: https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/social-security-disability-pitfalls. I hope this helps and that your flare resolves quickly and fully. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)

A bit off topic, your being an RN, I'd like to say thank you for risking your life to help other people during the covid crisis.

It's good you are diagnosed with something. It was the second time I applied for a disability that I got it. Being with the VA I had help with an organization in getting disability.My mother-in-law, a nurse, tried multiple times and then went through a lawyer. Previously she was told "If you can go out to eat you do not qualify for disability"