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Post by kofffee on Mar 25, 2011 14:33:45 GMT -5
blossom thanks for the reply - I will certainly ask the new doc about this and see if it goes anywhere. The Alberta daily living aids won't kick in anything - I have tried them when I needed to purchase an oxymeter and they said no. As to the weight gain, I gained 50 lbs on prednisone, and I haven't been able to lose it - at all. I have often wondered if the puffers I take every day influence this, my doc says no, but after trying to lose this weight for this long, I have to wonder. We have a treadmill that I use, not as often as I should, but some days just don't work with the pain level. I also keep as active as I can in the house - but cannot wait for spring to come again, - it has truly been a long winter. As to the O2 levels, I did a light vacuum today, sats stayed pretty good - around 92 with heart rate at 125 as I was taking my time. Will check it later on the treadmill - thanks again!
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Post by sandy07 on Mar 25, 2011 23:35:03 GMT -5
AADL would likely not pay because it is not a required item. Doctors and respiratory people really don't like us to have them but in the end accept it.
Don't give up trying AADL for things you might need in the future.
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Post by chrisw on Mar 26, 2011 13:27:41 GMT -5
I was wondering why Sandy was saying that
and then I realized that Sandy was referring to pulse oximeters not Canadian Income Tax Disability Credit!
I should add that some doctors and RTs DO indeed like patients to have and use pulse oximeters.
One of the people who come to my local support group was obviously looking "oxygen deprived" so I lent him one of my oximeters which he took to his doctor and showed the doctor that he was low on O2 using the oximeter. The doctor was so impressed that he asked my friend to buy one for him too!
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Post by sassy4242 on Mar 26, 2011 21:16:15 GMT -5
Sassy, I can do little more than reinforce what Shelley has said. I suspect that you have not seen a respirologist yet and that your family doctor is not the most sympathetic! With your resting O2 Sats. and EVER going down into the seventies then you definitely should be on oxygen, and most provinces should cover it, at least partially. With your breathing then you need to be evaluated at least once by a specialist - then when it comes to getting the forms filled out pick the one most understanding of your condition - some doctors can be ridiculously unsympathetic about COPD You have not said what province you live in and this could make a difference to oxygen coverage. (I do urge everyone to include the province where you live in your profile - it helps others give you meaningful advice about coverages etc.) ;D Chris, I am seeing a respirologist and all he ever seemed to care about was seeing the results from the PFT tests. I had been complaining to him for a couple of years about how SOB I would get doing anything. All he did was prescribe more meds or increase my Advair from 250 to 500. It was only when I got my own pulse oximeter and told him the results I was getting that he finally did something. So they set me up an appointment at the Pulmonary Rehab Centre last Thursday to do the six minute walk test and sure enough o2 sats fell to 76. Oxygen was ordered immediately for exertion only. I am going to be going to the Pulmonary Rehab as an inpatient for 4 weeks as soon as a spot opens up. Looking forward to it. Also the respirologist noticed that my echocardiogram from 2 years showed Pulmonary Hypertension. NO one told me this back then. So they scheduled another echo in 3 weeks along with a sleep study. I feel a big weight has been lifted off my shoulders, that finally someone is listening to me. P.S. - I live in Ontario
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Post by sandy07 on Mar 26, 2011 23:08:45 GMT -5
Change your respirologist.
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Post by sassy4242 on Mar 27, 2011 9:48:51 GMT -5
Change your respirologist. I am on a quest now to change him! Trust me!
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Post by sandy07 on Mar 27, 2011 13:16:56 GMT -5
I re-read your post re: respirologist....It appears..after a bad start...he is finally being able to see your problems. He DID catch the pulmonary hypertension. Sometimes it's hard to find a replacement. Maybe you want to give him another chance. At least see what he's got to say about the echo and sleep study. Have you been to a Pulmonologist yet?
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Post by sassy4242 on Mar 27, 2011 14:28:51 GMT -5
I re-read your post re: respirologist....It appears..after a bad start...he is finally being able to see your problems. He DID catch the pulmonary hypertension. Sometimes it's hard to find a replacement. Maybe you want to give him another chance. At least see what he's got to say about the echo and sleep study. Have you been to a Pulmonologist yet? My own doctor wasn't the one who caught the Pulmonary Hypertension, it was the Respirologist at the Pulmonary Rehab Clinic who did. He asked me when the last time I had an echocardiogram and when I said two years ago, he checked the computer for the results and found that the results said I had Pulmonary Hypertension and did I know that. I said no, that my own doctor did not mention anything. He was the one that ordered the oxygen after seeing the results of the six minute walk and ordered all the other tests. When I went back on Friday to test for the level of oxygen that I would need while walking, I asked the Respiratory Therapist the difference between a Respirologist and Pulmonologist and she told me nothing, that a Pulmononlogist is the name doctors used in the states and Respirologist is the name that a lung doctor uses in Canada.
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Post by sandy07 on Mar 27, 2011 23:24:07 GMT -5
I see a Pulmonologist in Edmonton, Canada...at least that's what I thought he was. Maybe he's from another country. When I looked up the definitions of each I couldn't find respirologist..only pulmonologist..the pulmo being the physician. Anyone else out there know? Doesn't really matter. As long as someone is finally doing something for you.
You mention getting a sleep test. You also say they gave you oxygen for exertion only. How do you feel when you wake up? Rested...or with a headache etc.? Quite often the need for oxygen at night comes BEFORE the exertion need. The sleep test will be for oxygen and apnea.
We are in the tax credit thread. We should start a new one. Still under COPD portal ..just maybe call it "my tests" or something when you post again. Hope everything goes well.
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Post by chrisw on Mar 28, 2011 0:27:40 GMT -5
Sassy, I am appalled that a respirologist in Canada in this day and age should not check O2 levels both resting and walking! ESPECIALLY if he had information two years ago that you had pulmonary hypertension! You might want to check out www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/adp/pdf/oxyphys.pdf which is the Ontario criteria for home oxygen - if it is possible push for liquid oxygen with something like the Caire Spirit 300 - much easier to become active if you can "wear" your oxygen and still have two hands free to be a normal human being. The patient information on the Ontario Home Oxygen Program is at www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/adp/oxygen.htmlGood luck - and keep pushing!! ;D
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Post by Deleted on Mar 30, 2011 19:50:36 GMT -5
Hi chrisw I'm in manitoba. In early 2k's I had my family doctor fill in the form for the federal disabilty tax credit, however, as my income was already below any taxable amount, after 2 years CRA simply refused my effort to add that line item on my telefile submssion. The good news, for manitobans, is our long running NDP gov't gives me a disabilty tax credit of about $100 refundable credit. Adding my basic credit, I get a whapping $260/yr. Who says politicians aren't caring people...ooops I forgot, I do already pay many $100 more in taxes and I'm far below the poverty line...the ship is sinking, but the captain balied out a long time ago
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Post by hugahusky on Jun 3, 2011 11:25:09 GMT -5
Hi Everyone,
Just thought I would let you know that I received my Certificate for the Canadian Tax Disability in the mail yesterday. No questions asked. It is retroactive back to 2005.
Thank you all for your advice and encouragement, especially Jackie who kept urging me to apply.
Thanks again. Susan
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Post by Blossom/Jackie W. on Jun 3, 2011 12:19:07 GMT -5
WooooHoooo Susan! I'm doing the Happy Dance for you!!! WTG lady for persisiting and I know it'll be a great encouragement for others! Thank you so very much for letting us know!!! P.S. Good Luck Today!
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Post by Blossom/Jackie W. on Jun 4, 2011 4:46:47 GMT -5
Somehow this got out of sequence so I've bumped it up.
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Post by hugahusky on Jun 4, 2011 7:34:11 GMT -5
Thank you Jackie. I was so excited and wanted to share my good news that I guess I was not paying attention to where I posted it.
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Post by shelley on Jun 4, 2011 9:38:59 GMT -5
Sassy, sorry, catching up on an old thread...are you going to Westpark for rehab? I'm in Ontario too, drop me a line and perhaps we can share some info.
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Post by shelley on Jun 4, 2011 9:45:34 GMT -5
BTW, re taxes, I have had my Disability Tax Credit since 2007 so no probs there. In fact, once the paperwork was straightened out they moved rather quickly as I was young and still had a child in the education system but just a warning...one would think that Rev Cda would put the puzzle together and see the whole picture but be warned....this year they decided to audit my medical expenses, asking for things such as 'proof' as to why I needed to run an oxygen concentrator, actual prescriptions for my air conditioner and it's electricity, bathroom aids and of all things why, living in the rural town of Acton, why I had to travel to Toronto for lung transplant. Let's face it, they're not the smartest in the playpen!!!! I urge you to keep all receipts and bills, whether they be hydro, parking, coffee and meals when you go to emerg., etc, etc. I even had to get a doctors letter saying that a move from a 2 storey house to a single level bungalow was a medical necessity even though they had it in their hands that I'm on oxygen and have difficulty with stairs. Please keep receipts...the departments do not communicate with each other.
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Post by robiemackie on Dec 7, 2011 1:00:28 GMT -5
I have just registered. I'm looking for info on tax credit in NB. I have had copd for many years but I was able to function very well. The past few years have gotten difficult however. My GP has often encouraged me to think about disability. I am going to be 60 yrs old next month, My FEV1 is 32, FVC 75 and TLC 139, whatever that means. Any advise. I saw a specialist today and he said the COPD was severe. I also have acid reflux. He thinkls there is a correlation and plans to put me on antibiotics in definitely, and will have me see a gastrologist. I also have very bad arthritus. Guys, I work full time and all I want is to be able to get to my office. I am short of breath after walking 20 ft. Am I disabled? Have you been down this road? I'm hoping for some advice.
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Post by sandy07 on Dec 7, 2011 1:43:35 GMT -5
I believe that the people getting the tax disability are no longer working. Correct me people if I'm wrong. If you are considering no longer working you can get the CPP disability..but you need to apply BEFORE you get to be 60. You say your 59 so if you apply now they'll take the date you applied...not the date they get around to doing it. The application is online at Service Canada. Since you'll be in a hurry just do the application. All the doctor and medical reports can be sent in after. The CPP disability will likely be less than $1000. a month. You didn't say....do you have a Health Plan at work with disability that would pay more? Do you live alone or married with a supporting spouse? Those are all considerations.
I was still working when my FEV1 was 32. But not for long after. Mine was a sit down job and I got along okay. I'm 62 now and have been getting the CPP disability since I was 59.
Yes, the COPD is giving you acid reflux. Our lungs are longer and pushing on our stomach. This can cause the reflux. It will also make you feel fuller even tho you didn't eat much. If you DO eat more your breathing won't be good for a few hours....at least that's my experience. A lot of us sleep elevated with pillows or the head of the bed raised. It helps keep the acid down.
Daily antibiotics are being done by some on this board. I believe it's to stop a merry-go-round of infections. Do you get pneumonia or infections (exacerbations) a lot...like every 3 mos.? Trips to the ER ?
There will be a few more people coming in the morning with their ideas I'm sure. Keep in touch.
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Post by Blossom/Jackie W. on Dec 7, 2011 7:58:11 GMT -5
Sue (Hugahusky) got the tax credit and she's still working I believe. Her numbers may even be close to yours Robie.
What kind of job do you have? Is it a sit down? Are you dealing with the public? or....
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Post by hugahusky on Dec 7, 2011 9:00:42 GMT -5
Good Morning Robie, I believe Sandy is talking about something other than the Income Tax Disability Credit. She is talking about the Canada Pension Disability Pension. Yes, by all means apply for your Income Tax Disability Credit. The form is on line for you to print and take to your doctor to have it completed. www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/sgmnts/dsblts/menu-eng.htmlI submitted mine in March 2011 and received the approval the end of May. My GP said that they would probably contact him for further information but they did not and when I received it, it was retroactive to 2005. Then I refiled my tax returns for the years 2005 - 2010 and received a cheque in October for the tax credits owing to me. All my GP told them was that it took me an unreasonably amount of time to walk a city block. I wondered if the fact that I am still working made a difference to their decision because even with the tax credit I am still paying income tax. Go ahead and apply and if I can be of further assistance just ask me or private message me if you like. Susan
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Post by sandy07 on Dec 7, 2011 9:49:36 GMT -5
I mentioned both since robie said her doctor was encouraging her to apply for disability and I didn't think the doctor would be talking about the tax credit.....however I realized the thread was about the tax credit. I just wasn't sure which one she was inquiring about.
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Post by robiemackie on Dec 7, 2011 21:28:45 GMT -5
Thanks for advise. I am currently working, sitting at a desk all day, most of my business is done over the phone. I have a medical plan with long term disability with my employer. I do live alone. My GP has been supportive and discussed long term disability on several occasions, always telling me she would fight for me. I foolishly always told her it wasn't time yet. COPD won, I'm ready for disability. I struggle for every breath, meds aren't helping and sitting at work for hours is so very difficult. I went to my doctor to agree to apply for disability, but I was not aware of how difficult a process it is. This is why my GP sent me to see a respirologis to be evaluated for long term disability. He did not mention disability, he did say I was in the severe catagory with COPD. He then discussed the possibility of acid reflux as creating additional problems and suggested antibiotics. He also said he would order more brathing tests in 6 months. So I am assuming he is not on board. I am alittle confused. Can my GP file for disability or should I be just wait the additional 6 mohts. Honestly, I dont k now if I can function through the winter. I always tried very hard to avoid the ER and have not been there this year. I can never get in to see my doctor when I'm sick so I go to an after hours clinic often. Its always the same, I explain my condition, am given antibiotics and prednisone for several days, neither works very well. I have not been aggressive enough I guess . I was hospitolized for almost 3 wks 6 yrs ago with the COPD. I only missed work 2 or 3 times this year, but when I do miss I am so sick it takes weeks to recover and I'm out of work for a few weeks each time. I have tried hard to hide this condition from my employer, maybe not a smart thing to do. I had never thought about disability and was alway fearful of my employer firing me, and since I'm alone I would lose my house. I have made an appointment with my GP but can't see her until 21 Dec. Do any of you have any suggestions? I guess I always thought once the COPD was really bad I could use the disability plan I have paid for. Re: the tax credit, I am wondering if I should at least apply for it if I have to wait another 6 months for more breathing tests.
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Post by sandy07 on Dec 8, 2011 10:19:03 GMT -5
You can apply for the tax credit any time. I believe people were able to get it retroactive. Your GP can fill out papers for anything you need. The information he got from the respirologist will help him. Don't try to hide your condition from your employer. The Insurance company will be questioning them as well I would think. Best they know of your condition. I don't know the routine but I would get the needed papers from the Insurance company and get them filled out. The information would need to be fairly recent. Did you say you had just been to the respirologist? Then everything should be up to date. Go for it. Good Luck. Keep in touch.
BTW...a lot of us see the Respirologist on a regular basis. Usually every 6 mos. Less if we've been sick and they want to see us sooner.
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Post by hugahusky on Dec 8, 2011 10:35:43 GMT -5
My employer is very understanding of my condition and has made every effort to provide a safe work environment for me. Supplied an air purifier, will not allow the staff to use the colour printer when I am in the office and allowed me to work alternate hours so that I could attend rehab.
If you have long term disability insurance I would apply for that first, before you apply for CPP disability. The long term insurance would probably be a shorter wait time and once you begin receiving it, the insurance company will probably ask you to apply for the CPP disability.
I know it is a huge decision as I am having the same thoughts, my work contract ends June 30th but I have to make a decision by January as to whether I am going to renew it.
I have also been looking into perhaps selling my house and moving into a seniors complex that will offer assisted living when needed, as I too live alone and I find that it is expensive to pay people to maintain it ... snow removal, lawn care, etc.
Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
Susan
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Post by sandy07 on Dec 8, 2011 11:00:36 GMT -5
Susan...the application for CPP Disability needs to be done before the age of 60. You can only collect it till 65 then it reverts to the regular CPP.
Robie...it can't hurt to do it right away. At least the basic application. At least it will get there before next month when you turn 60. You'll need a lot of medical info for both anyway. What may happen is that the company insurance will top up the CPP disability.
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Post by hugahusky on Dec 8, 2011 12:50:48 GMT -5
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Post by robiemackie on Dec 8, 2011 16:38:55 GMT -5
Thanks for your responses I have checked the for CPP Disability) web site and it seems you can apply anytime before your 60 Yrs. It does however also state, ' have stopped working. There seems to be many hoops to jump. With my private insurance I have to go on short term disability first, but during that time I can apply for long term. Does anyone know if the eligibility for CPP considers short term disability as stopped working. It seems all the little phrases are significant. It's all rather discouraging and negative. Your kind of made to feel your asking for something you don't deserve.
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Post by sandy07 on Dec 9, 2011 11:11:11 GMT -5
hugahusky .... I stand corrected. My situation was different. I applied for early CPP and they tell you to apply at least 6 mos. before 60. Gov't is slow to process, right? This is the date they used for everything after that.
It says that if you are already collecting CPP pension you can apply to get the CPP Disability if your disability started before your CPP application. Okay. I get it now. I'm slow... Since I applied when I was 59 they needed reports about doctor's visits, times in the ER , PFT's and what dates to determine whether I was disabled enough before I applied for the regular CPP.
The older I get the harder it is to make sense of some of these gov't rules.
Thanks for catching it Susan.
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Post by Blossom/Jackie W. on Dec 9, 2011 11:43:11 GMT -5
This is me whispering .... The problem with Govt. IS Govt. And sometimes interpretations. I think they intentionally make things confusing. Maybe; just maybe.... I could contact the Government at some point and see if we could have a representative answer a bunch of questions (which we could compile here) and relay to/from. I've done it before for other things and heck maybe they'll be agreeable if I do it through the charity (the Network) If I'm not able to; perhaps someone else could/would take on the task? In all honesty; they're pretty good these days about answering questions and clarifying....
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