Question:
My husband served in the marines during desert storm. He has a non service connected disability. He has Huntington's chorea. This is a terrible disease that stole our future. At the age of 36, Keith was deemed disabled. It has been about 12 years. The disease has progressed so that he needs aid and attendance 24-7. I work and can not afford this,we have applied for VA pension . Was told we make too much money. Our net worth is $38,000. I pay $19,000 a year in rent. Not to mention that when I use Family Medical Leave, I do not get paid . In the past year, I have had to take off about 20 times. How can they neglect him?. If he is placed in a home, he will be sedated and die. He smokes cigarettes and drinks soda daily. and will not be allowed to do this in a home. This is all this man lives for, that and his daughter. Please help me keep Keith home.
Jim's Reply:
Huntington's Disease is a well recognized inherited genetic condition. As an inherited condition it can't be caused by military service or anything else...it will happen regardless of the individual's circumstances at the time it occurs.
VA Pension is a means tested benefit and the household income is the number used to determine eligibility. If you have a job, it's likely that you make too much money for eligibility to pension.
However, there may be a way to seek a service connected rating by making the claim that military service aggravated the pre-existing condition. If he showed signs or symptoms while he was active, that may be the connection he needs. In any case, you should speak with a veterans law attorney and talk of any options. Click here for information.