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mrkmyword · Jul 31, 2010, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by melissa.recovering

Just wondering if anyone living in Ontario has applied for ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program, I believe). I am currently going through the process, and have a few questions:

Hi Melissa,
I have MS and was diagnosed 3 years ago. I had lost my vision so I had to quit working and depend on my spouse for assistance. Since then I tried to apply for ODSP about 3 times

I also began a battle with CPP. Which I was adamant to receive after paying into it close to 20years.

When I contacted ODSP I was told that because I owned a home and had RRSP savings I would be expected to go through that first.
" So let me get this straight" I asked " I need to be financially destitute before you will help me? Isn't it better for me to keep my savings and home and you just assist me?" I never did get an answer to that question.

My Neurologist was great and filled out as many forms as I needed he was expecting me to get assistance like I was.

Don't give up! A lot of it is bureaucratic BS and keep in mind that a civil servant is NOT a Doctor and they have to give a really good written reason for rejecting your application.

My wife and I were having difficulties in our relationship I was going through painful treatment and since I was the only 'adult' at home who could deal with ODSP I gave it up because it was too hard by myself.

Let me end on a good note I fought the federal government for 2 years and was awarded CPP in April.

During the battle
I learned this:

1. It doesn't matter what disability you have.
If you agree with your doctor FIGHT for it.

2. A non-medical person has no right to decide if you do or don't qualify on 'their' own judgment or experience.

3 Keep asking, applying, calling and don't give up.

4 Call your MPP or MP - that's what they are there for -It doesn't matter if you voted for them or not. Call their office write letters keep sending it and don't get discouraged if they send you back a 'form' letter telling you what the government 'has' done - call and demand to speak to someone who will help you NOW!

5 Get mad and stay mad! for me I found that's what motivated me. I never accepted no as an answer or some government 'gobbly gook'.

I hope this helps.
You can email me if you have any more questions.

Good Luck!