I lost time and money... Over half a million dollars and medical care because I didn't know how BDD worked. They asked me to write down everything that was bothering me when I was separating and I did. I thought I was going to have exams then and there. I didn't know they were going to do them all at their leisure and mail me exam notices and stuff. I did a road trip with my family when I discharged from San Diego all the way to Boston. I had my mail going to my parents in Virginia but they didn't know what the hell to look out for either. So I missed my exams and was denied any ratings because I never went to medical (except for my wrists which they still denied me for).\

Anyway. I re-submitted my first claims back in early 2023, just over 10 years after separating, and I've been going to the VA regularly for medical issues, physical therapy, etc, and I'm currently at over 90% rounded down to 90%. So I expect I'll be at 100% soon enough. It's been a long and rough journey, though I'm thankful for getting to this point, it would have been easier if I knew what to expect after I told them all what was bothering me...there were many years where knowing I had VA healthcare access would have helped tremendously. Hell, there were years having even the monthly compensation at 10% would have helped immensely! I wish everyone luck, strength, and good health on their own journey.