Question:
Jim, I retired in 1994 after 21 years and was just recently diagnosed with skin cancer at the VA hospital. I didn't have any combat tours to speak of, but spent lots of times aboard ships built prior to WW2 when asbestos was king and everything was covered in it along with being a aircraft mechanic and naval aircrew man flying to and from aircraft carriers. Three weeks later after the confirmed diagnosis, the VA sends me to a local hospital and they perform surgery removing the cancer and leaving a 4 inch scar along my face that's still healing. Is it even possible to connect my skin cancer to service connected with no combat tours? I did file for disability 3 weeks ago with the VA for the skin cancer and it's in the "gathering of evidence" mode as of now.
Jim's Reply:
You may...or may not...be able to prove a nexus or connection to your environment and your skin cancer. You'll need an Independent Medical Opinion from an expert physician who will help you provide the science that supports such a cause and effect outcome.
Yes, you'll have to pay a fee out of your pocket to obtain your IMO. Many years ago I did the same thing and the investment has been more than worth it. An IMO doctor can't help you if there's no supporting science but otherwise, an IMO is the best way I know to make your case to VA.
Click that link to get started. Good luck sir.