March 1995 • No. 2, Article 5
Today it is hard to believe that David is the same man who just a few months ago was in intensive care and on the verge of financial disaster. But overcoming adversity is nothing new to David. He was born with a large, port-wine stain (a large, purple-red birthmark) on his face which was worsened by "corrective" surgery. The surgery resulted in disfiguring scarring covering more than half of his face which made it difficult for him to be in public. Nevertheless, he earned enough money mowing lawns to save for college and to pay Social Security taxes. He went to college, earned his degree, got a job with a large corporation, and saved enough money to buy a house.
As an adult David faced further hardship. He injured his knee
at work three times and each time underwent knee surgery. After the
third surgery, his doctor told him that he could not return to his regular
work in mail operations. He applied for Social Security disability
benefits, but his claim was denied.
David's physical and financial condition continued to plummet after
he suffered a heart attack and had to undergo a six-way heart bypass surgery.
Although the surgery was successful, he was left with severe physical limitations,
enormous medical bills, no health insurance, and still no Social Security
disability benefits or any other income. He barely had enough money to
eat.
David reapplied for Social Security benefits on the basis of his heart problem. He received incorrect information about the application process from Social Security and, as a result, his case was dismissed after several months.
At this point, David's disillusionment was complete. Fortunately, he did not give up. He contacted his Congressman's office who referred him to The Hawkins Center. The Hawkins Center represented him at a Social Security disability hearing. Finally, in December of 1994, David received a favorable decision. He was paid benefits retroactive to the date he became disabled and was able to pay off most of his debts.
Now that David's health is returning and he has the financial security
of monthly disability benefit payments, he is able to pursue a career as
a salesperson - his longtime aspiration. He is enjoying 12-hour days
as one of the top salesmen for a large car dealership! David plans
to continue working and hopes to get off of Social Security soon. We are
inspired by David's perseverance and strength.