I did use an attorney. I got denied by myself the first time, then got an attorney to help with appeal. He then requested an in person hearing with judge to appeal. Backlog was huge since they were just digging themselves out of Covid. Went back and forth with questions and documentation, and finally was approved, without going to court. Whole process took about 2 years, but much of that was early Covid. I think getting an attorney is anyone’s best bet, cause they deal with them all the time. And they are required my Medicare to charge a flat fee, like $3500, and they don’t get that unless you are approved. Bonus is you get SS disability back paid till when you first got sick.

Another key was getting officially diagnosed with LC, And getting a couple of doctors, and an occupational therapist write a letter saying you’re no longer able to work.

All my issues are neurological. My vision was impacted with me only able to work on electronics for a short time or I get dizzy and nauseous with stabbing pain in my eyes. I’ve also been diagnosed with Central Sensitization Syndrome where I get overloaded with too much going on, i.e, sound (restaurant), vision, (I can only drive back roads and can’t listen to radio in car anymore. All this creates extreme anxiety, and I have to remove myself from the situation. I’m also dizzy and off balance a lot. It also gave me fibromyalgia, so live with fatigue and pain most days. I’m sure I’m missing some, but that gives you the idea.

I hope this helps. Sorry so long, but it definitely has been a long, tough journey. Good luck and happy to help with any other questions you may have.