Every year, millions of Social Security Disability claims are received by the Social Security Administration. While many of these claims are filed by disabled workers who are no longer able to maintain substantial gainful employment, some Social Security Disability applications are filed by parents of children who have been diagnosed with severe disabling conditions.
In the past, parents who were filing Social Security Disability claims for severely disabled children had to pursue the same disability claim process as everyone else. As a result, it would sometimes take these parents more than two years to obtain an approval of their child's disability application. Unfortunately, some parents do not have years or even months to wait for an approval of their child's disability application. In 2008 the Social Security Administration took measures to address this fact and implemented the Compassionate Allowances program.
Under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines, certain Social Security Disability applicants are able to obtain expedited approval of their disability claims. Instead of waiting months or years before benefits can begin, these applicants can obtain an approval of their Social Security Disability benefits in just a few weeks. There are 88 conditions that qualify an applicant for processing under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines, and Wolman Disease is one of these.
If your child has been diagnosed with Wolman Disease, the following information will help guide you through the disability claim process and help you understand how you can increase your child's chances of obtaining a quick approval of his or her disability benefits under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
Wolman Disease - Condition and Symptoms
Wolman Disease, also referred to as early onset LAL Deficiency, LAL Deficiency and Wolman's Disease, is a genetic disorder that is caused by a deficiency of the lysosomal acid lipase enzyme. The body needs this enzyme in order to break down lipids that form in the cells of the body. A deficiency of this enzyme can lead to a build-up of these lipids in the liver and other areas of the body, resulting in an array of disabling effects.
Wolman Disease is one of a range of conditions known as Lysosomal Storage Disorders, or LSDs. This particular form of these disorders is early in onset, usually developing within the first weeks or month of life. The condition is caused by a defect in either or both copies of the LAL gene that is inherited from the parents. While the symptoms of Wolman Disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition, common symptoms include difficulty feeding, frequent vomiting, loose stools, abdominal swelling, liver enlargement, spleen enlargement, and lack of weight gain or even weight loss.
Unfortunately there is no cure for Wolman Disease. Instead, treatment is focused on reducing the symptoms of the condition. Changes in diet (such as low fat formula) and intravenous feeding may be necessary. Antibiotics can be prescribed for secondary infections. Some patients will receive steroid replacement therapy due to concerns regarding adrenal function. There are ongoing studies being conducted to develop better treatment options for patients who are born with this condition.
Filing for Social Security Disability with Wolman Disease
If your child has been diagnosed with Wolman Disease, you may be wondering how you are going to make ends meet while caring for the needs of your child. It is not uncommon for a parent to cease work activity in order to stay home with the afflicted infant, caring for his or her needs. While the resulting lack of income can cause serious financial hardship, Social Security Disability benefits can help.
Although Wolman Disease is one of the 88 conditions that qualifies an individual for claim processing under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines, you must still take care when preparing and submitting your disability claim forms. A diagnosis of this Compassionate Allowances listing is not a guarantee of an automatic Social Security Disability approval.
When completing your disability claim paperwork, make sure you answer all of the application questions as thoroughly as possible and provide complete copies of your child's medical records. Test results, lab findings, and written statements from treating physicians can all help support your child's disability claim.
Your Wolman Disease Social Security Disability Case
If you would like to increase your chances of obtaining a hassle-free approval of your child's Social Security Disability benefits under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines, you may want to consider retaining the services of a disability attorney. These professionals can help you in the preparation of your disability claim and can ensure that your child's claim is submitted to the Social Security Administration in the best light possible. Your advocate or attorney will also ensure that your child's claim is processed according to the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
