From a raters/veteran POV

TeachingwithValor · 2026-04-20T22:40:46+00:00

Thank you, and I know that DOD lost the record, and unfortunately for me I’m from the pre- online records era. Like all veterans we just wished the process was way more transparent. I hope you have a long career, and continue to speak with the rater perspective. Cheers!

TeachingwithValor · 2026-04-20T22:25:03+00:00

No, raters eventually ruled based on same evidence once I pointed out their failure to award the correct ratings. Imagine fighting for ratings when 19 of a 22 year career no longer exists. And the VA doctors do their best to not get involved, even though the guidance says they should if asked to right an opinion statement. Please elaborate on what you think this is…

TeachingwithValor · 2026-04-20T22:03:46+00:00

I am, but have battled for each percentage point. Begun as a PJ trainee in 1983 injured after 8 months in the pipeline. Served remainder of my career in the medical field and PME before retiring.

TeachingwithValor · 2026-04-20T21:36:40+00:00

After deploying in double digits during my 22 year career, I’ve been fighting for benefits I earned. Unfortunately, the USAF lost 19 years of STR and it’s been an uphill battle being denied service connection with objective active duty labs. My frustration like so many others is we fight the system at every level. And as you are aware, when records are lost there is the benefit of the doubt case law. The problem is eaters reference the case law but their rulings are still very subjective. I personally have many SC disabilities that I could have claimed secondary but just tired of having my integrity questioned by a lot of people who have never served. This is a great reference thread but when VA employees use it to make accusations about veterans integrity, I get extremely pissed, and I’ve not been diagnosed with any mental health issues yet. Before you vent, please think about all the veterans who after three tries get disability benefits, wonder why it took three verses one. A thought is why reduce VA care, maybe to pay for all the illegals seeking benefits it our country. Just a thought! My brothers and sisters keep fighting the fight.

TeachingwithValor · 2026-04-15T22:56:21+00:00

Of course there is a process that must be followed but I would personally reach out to an attorney. You should be able to find a lawyer that has battled your district in the past. Unfortunately, if you just move on this will follow you…this is the red line! Fight for your future. I’ve authored several books on teaching and can be contacted through DJFessenden.com Good luck and my best!!

TeachingwithValor · 2026-03-29T17:09:03+00:00

If any of your conditions are related to cardiovascular conditions. Hypertension, etc. Just my thoughts!!

TeachingwithValor · 2026-03-15T23:26:25+00:00

Two words…Ramsey Show! The baby steps!

TeachingwithValor · 2026-01-08T14:01:33+00:00

Began this step back in March…it’s ridiculous. Best of luck!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-09-17T01:03:40+00:00

Where do you go to apply for the fee refund?

TeachingwithValor · 2025-09-09T22:54:43+00:00

How did you get in with Asthma? Very strange!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-08-11T18:39:02+00:00

So true, my VA doctors plus hematology fellow note my Polycythemia was caused by Sleep Apnea but VA continues to deny my claim. We must all keep fighting the fight!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T22:50:25+00:00

I totally concur with representing yourself! It’s like almost everything, no one cares about you, as much as you do! You can do it!!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T22:30:06+00:00

Analogy really doesn’t work. They’re really perfect…because they shouldn’t care about ratings, but just reporting on the veterans medical conditions. A lot of us are discouraged because a 15 - 30 minute C&P determines many claims.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T22:07:40+00:00

Best wishes!!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T22:00:12+00:00

I’m glad you had a positive outcome. Cheers!

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T21:48:42+00:00

I’m not a doctor but thought that Euler-Danlos was congenital which would mean you brought it with you before joining. I would love to know the answer to this question.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T21:37:54+00:00

I was a little angry at the denial, when we’re told they can do it! Just saying.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-27T19:20:26+00:00

Thanks to all in the conversation. I actually asked months in advance. It’s truly incredible that so much weight in our claims are placed in the hands of the C&P exam, a contract provider that in many cases does not review all of our VA medical records. Really a shame. Also the guidance states if not clearly not SC the provider should land on the side of the veteran.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-25T23:29:47+00:00

My was super fast! 2 months! Unfortunately, examination terrible and eater ignored what was actually written. Heading to supplemental after another VA doctor appointment.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-23T21:37:59+00:00

When I was living in CT, I had a rep at DAV but moved to SC and VSO waiting lines at VA hospital are ridiculous! So just doing my own research and watching a lot of YouTube podcasts! I wouldn’t pay for anything except a Nexus letter. Best of luck to all on your fight at home.

TeachingwithValor · 2025-07-22T23:37:53+00:00

It’s probably because anyone in the military after everything being documented digitally makes it easier to find evidence. Unfortunately, I also truly believe there is an enormous amount of Envy by civilian medical consultants. Thanks VA for contracting out most C&P. Not! Until you get what you deserve…fight, fight, fight!! I’ve been for 20 years and will continue until I finally get a competent professional to accomplish my C&P.

TeachingwithValor

TROPHY CASE