Friday, May 27, 2011

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month

The Hepatitis Foundation International designates May as Hepatitis Awareness Month.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver and is a contagious disease resulting from infection of any of the five known hepatitis viruses.  It is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.  This condition is characterized by nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice, vomiting and loss of appetite, fever, and fatigue.  There are five known types of hepatitis virus, but only three of these are more commonly identified in reported cases in the United States, namely:  Hepatitis A (HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV).

HAV is the least dangerous of these diseases and is spread through ingestion of fecal matter from contact with infected objects, food and drinks such as fruits, vegetables, shellfish, ice, and water.  This condition does not become chronic and people sick with HAV usually recover with no lasting liver damage. 

HBV and HCV are transmitted when blood or body fluids of an infected person are absorbed through the mucosal tissues of someone who is not infected.  Thus, sharing of infected needles, syringes, or other sharp instruments are some of the ways by which these viruses are spread.  Sexual contact with infected partners, and birth to an infected mother are transmission routes more common to HBV, but less seldom associated with HCV.  Unlike HAV, both HBV and HCV could progress into a chronic illness, requiring treatment and hospitalization.  Even after the patient recovers, periodic check-ups are necessary in order to monitor the development and condition of the liver.

An estimated 3,000 persons in the United States die from HBV-related illness per year; and 12,000 persons die from HCV-related illness per year.

HBV and HCV patients may need to stop work in order to undergo treatment for their disease.  During this time, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in order to cover daily living expenses involved in the treatment and possible hospitalization.  Since the application process can take many months and is sometimes confusing, some people do not file timely, or if they do file they become frustrated and give up.  In these cases, The Advocator Group can help.  From facilitating the processing of the claim, assisting with the paperwork, obtaining medical information when it is needed, making sure that deadlines are met, and advising on the Medicare enrolment process, The Advocator Group is there when life changes.  Being represented by The Advocator Group reduces the stress associated with being ill and helps to get the financial help needed.  For more information on how The Advocator Group can help with the SSDI process, call their toll free number at:  (877) 261-1947.

Friday, May 6, 2011

This is National Stroke Awarness Month

When Facing a Disability - You Need an Advocate
On May 11, 1989, President George Bush created and signed into law, a Presidential Proclamation naming the month of May as National Stroke Awareness month.  In doing so, the President encouraged and designated a special time to create public interest and awareness of this life changing, challenging, and debilitating disease. 
According to the American Heart Association’s Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics (updated for 2011), “the estimated total cost (including health expenditures and lost productivity) from heart disease and strokes, in the United States is higher than that for any other diagnostic group.  According to the stats, over 700,000 people have succumb to a stroke, but less than half, have a fatal end.
So what happens to the hundreds of thousands of people who live, recover, and survive?
Whether you have suffered a heart attack, a minor stroke, or are suffering from any other disability, your life changes, and many feel, for the first time, like a victim; so vulnerable with nowhere to turn.   They may need disability benefits, but are hesitant and even afraid to pursue this course.  That is why you need an Advocate to represent you.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – You’ve Earned It
What you don’t know about disability benefits, can really hurt you financially.  The average person tends to believe that social security benefits are strictly for their retirement.  Others may be hesitant to apply for any kind of disability insurance as they are totally unaware of their eligibility, and end up not applying for the very funds they need to sustain them at this crucial time. This type of reasoning has prevented many Americans from applying for the very help they so desperately require.  The fact is, that SSDI is funded by FICA tax deductions that Americans contribute to, through their paychecks.  This automatically earns them the right to apply for a benefit that they have already contributed to, throughout their years of employment.
The Advocator Group is Standing by – We Care and We Understand
The Advocator Group  has been helping thousands of individuals suffering from disabilities get the financial benefits that they have already earned and deserve. We are comprised of a nationwide staff of experienced and seasoned Case Advocates, who specialize in disability-related matters.  They, in turn, are supported by licensed attorneys referred to as Hearing Advocates, who are on call, if needed.  At The Advocator Group, we have all your bases covered.  We are here to help you navigate seamlessly through the process, making it pain free. 
As your disability benefit advocate, we are well aware of how difficult it can be when suffering from a disability.  You find yourself struggling your way around a Government website, trying to obtain the information needed, on top of having to cope with the application deadlines that must be met. It can be a very stressful experience.
The Advocator Group  gives you the representation that you need.  We will hold your hand in the process, with compassion and patience.  Our focus and passion is helping our clients receive their disability benefits quickly, getting the financial help that they require.
When you Have an Advocate – You are Never Alone
After a disability, your life will change.  Some people may go back to work, with a limited capacity, while others may have to leave their full time jobs and work from home.  Family and friends may be of great comfort, but at this time, you will need the facts, and need them quickly.
The Advocator Group is waiting to help you.  Just call our toll free number at:  (877) 261-1947.  We have the tools and resources that you need.  Let’s get started today.