Question:

I served at Camp Lejeune from 1977-1980 as a US Marine. I have recently been diagnosed with bladder cancer. I filed a disability claim with the VA on Oct 7th. My status says decision by April 2020. I am being seen by a urological oncologist at a leading cancer hospital in NYC. I submitted my pathology to the VA with my application. I just don't know what to expect next. Do I just sit back and wait until April? Will I need to submit to a medical exam at a local VA hospital? Is it necessary to get legal help? Since bladder cancer is one of the 8 presumptive diseases associated with the toxic water at Camp Lejeune, is there a possibility the VA will deny my claim? Thank you in advance for your time and assistance with this matter.

Jim's Reply:

Yes, now you sit back and wait until April. Be aware that the timeline may change as you go along so be alert for messages that may shuffle the schedule of exams and so on. Yes, you will be scheduled for a Compensation & Pension (C & P) exam. If VA doesn't have your medical records, you can take a handful of copies that show the diagnosis and treatments you've had. You do not need legal help although if you have difficulty with forms, you can ask a state or county veterans service officer for help. Even though the evidence you cite seems to favor a positive decision for you, mistakes happen and the most legit claims are sometimes denied in error. We'll hope that doesn't happen to you but if it does, then you can think about talking with a veterans law attorney to appeal any denial.