VA and Parkinson’s disease
Hi guys,
I’m writing here on behalf of my husband. He is a Navy veteran and last year received about an 80% VA disability rating.
Two years ago, he was officially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. His condition has become very difficult. Looking back, the symptoms started many years ago - probably more than 10 years ago. He always had health complaints and we knew something was wrong, but doctors couldn’t figure out the cause. I researched a lot myself, gave the doctors information about what I suspected, and finally in 2024 he received the Parkinson’s diagnosis.
We believe his Parkinson’s is connected to exposures during his Navy service and his time in Iraq, but the VA denied the Parkinson’s claim and rated it at 0%. His health is getting worse. He is exhausted, unable to do anything at home, and everyday life has become very hard for our family. I’m worried about his future care and need help getting him the benefits he deserves. I work full time but bad job and make less than 2 K monthly, and in the summer I have 3 months not paid break:-(
My husband also paid $1,500 to some AI company that claimed they could help with his VA claim, but unfortunately nothing came from it and he did not get his money back.
There are also other conditions that were denied, including hearing loss (he was a Navy pilot) and other service-related issues.
For those who have been through this: what should we do next? Should we hire a VA disability attorney, work with a VSO, file an appeal, or try another route? Any advice from veterans or families who have dealt with Parkinson’s claims would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much.