Hi Capt Deb,
I haven't been on the forum for a while. I want to congratulate you for your perseverance. I believe after reading all of the thread here, you have a lot of support that you get your SSD. So do I. I too had applied and have been denied once. Waiting for a hearing is the hardest thing in the world. You feel guilt that you want to work but can't or don't and I can say from my experience, I am finally giving up on work.
I applied last year in the early spring and within 60 days denied. After all the doctor bills piled up, and with little or no sympathy from family, friends, doctors, and co-workers, I went back to work in Aug 06. I work as a Credit Card Customer Service Rep taking in-bound phone calls. I had Cyberknife treatments Oct 2006. I hoped I would be able to continue my job but I immediately noticed I couldn't walk without dragging a foot or losing my balance to my desk or from it. I actually fell into a seated co-worker while trying to go take a bathroom break. My manager sent me home. I think at least she realizes that this is not faked. I have to go down via elevator to the lunch room 3 flights and by the time I get there, I'm sick to my stomach and usually don't eat a lunch. We can eat at the desk but I want to get away from my work when possible.
I have louder tinnitus than from before my treatments and I too can't hear a conversation or where it is coming from. I have an amplified headset but with the volume turned up as loud as it can be, I don't always understand what a customer says. If I move my head too much even while seated, during the call or transferring someone to another department, that will make me nauseated when I take my eyes off of my task. Oh,...just one more thing. Since my treatments, I no longer drive. My wife won't let me and frankly,... I really shouldn't be driving with my balance loss. I miss my driving!! I am turning 55 this Oct so it has all been quite depressing and yes,...I too am on Effexor for that.
I occasionally get headaches too, but usually not that severe as you. What I have found through my research is that your tumor can affect several different nerves. Lucky for me, my facial nerve had no damages, but I can assure you that my balance, hearing, short-term memory, and energy has been. I found out that it is the size/location of your tumor that makes all the difference what your disability is going to be. Don't give up!!!
As for those 95% that can still work, consider yourself very fortunate! My lawyer is getting ready for my hearing as we speak. Now that I have documented evidence of falling, and backing of my doctors, I'm going to try again for SSD.